COMPLEXITY OF NETWORK SYSTEMS

Computer networks is a complex subject due to the following reasons

• MANY DIFFERENT TECHNOLOGIES EXIST:

The first reason for the complexity of networks is that there are many different
technologies exist for networking and each technology features are different from the
other. This is because many companies have developed networking standards, which
are not compatible with each other. In this way multiple technologies exist that are
used to connect different networks.

• NO SINGLE UNDERLYING THEORY OR MODEL:

The second reason for the complexity of networks is that there is no single underlying
theory or model, which specifies or defines different aspects of networking. Rather,
various organizations and research groups have developed conceptual models that can
be used to explain differences and similarities between network hardware and
software.

• MODELS ARE EITHER SO SIMPLISTIC OR SO COMPLEX:

Another reason for the complexity of networks is that the conceptual models
made by organization are either so simplistic that they do not
distinguish between details, or they are so complex that they do not simplify the
subject.

• NO SIMPLE OR UNIFORM TERMINOLOGY:

One reason for the complexity of networks is that there is no simple or uniform
terminology that can be used for the same feature. Different technologies use
different terminologies. In this way terms are confused with product names.