Answer:
INTRODUCTION
Among the more significant events in the recent history of long-distance communication have been the building of computer-based communication networks and the development of technologies that have made possible the implementation and exploitation of these networks. In this chapter we focus on these technologies and on the challenges and opportunities for human factors research that they present.
We begin with a brief historical overview of computer-communications networking technology. We then focus on current trends, especially the phenomenon of "global connectivity" that networking is coming to represent and some of the implications this could have. In the remainder of the chapter we discuss some of the human factors issues and research needs that relate to networking and its future development and applications.
HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
Networks that link computers from different geographical locations are a relatively recent phenomenon. Since the first such networks were implemented, the technology has advanced rapidly. It appears that this rapid advance will continue and that applications of the technology will become increasingly widespread over the near term.
The first experimental networks connecting independent, nonhomogeneous,
Explanation:
Network enhancements will come from the development of increasingly powerful computing devices, many of which are especially designed for network applications, as well as from improvements in the methods for transmitting information from point to point and from the development of new network configurations and new ways of linking networks together.
