Now let's see what are generic forms of networks that can exist in computer communications. A network can be defined simply as an interconnection of multiple teleprocessing devices. Three basic approaches to network processing exist in modern communications systems.

Timesharing

The earliest approach is known as timesharing. Timesharing occurs in networks in which multiple users gain access to a single host computer from their individual terminals. An example of timesharing is the use of a central computer at a nationwide company's headquarters by a variety of sales professionals dispersed around the nation.

The next approach gaining popularity in computer networking systems was the distributed processing method. This type of system involves the interconnection of minicomputers and microcomputers throughout a business organization. Various types of resources are shared by the interconnected terminals, while the individual computers retain control over their own processing.