An explanation of neural networks

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In this video, TechTarget editor Jamison Cush talks about neural networks -- what they do and how they work in computing.

It's training a computer to learn like a human.

A neural network is a type of deep learning, which falls under the category of AI. It's a system of hardware and/or software designed to mimic how neurons in the human brain work.

A neural network involves a large number of processors operating in tiers. The first tier receives the raw input information and each following tier receives the output from the tier above it.

Every processing node among all the tiers has its own small sphere of knowledge that it applies to the input information; the last tier provides the final output.

That's how it works -- but how does it learn in order to provide an output?

Typically, a neural network is fed huge amounts of data on the topic it will be used for. It's trained by providing input and telling the network what the output should be. Rules are also put in place to help the network learn.

For example, a facial recognition system may be taught to recognize a mustache on a face. During training, the network will be fed pictures of people with and without mustaches and told which photos do, in fact, have a mustache.

It might also be instructed, "Mustaches are below a nose and above a mouth." Rules like this can make training faster and the end model more powerful.

Neural networks are utilized by a wide variety of industries. Some notable applications of neural networking include the following:

  • Speech-to-text transcription.
  • Handwriting recognition.
  • Weather prediction.
  • Facial recognition.
  • Chatbots.
  • Stock market prediction.
  • Delivery route planning and optimization.
  • And so much more.

What are some other applications of neural networking? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to hit that like button, too.

Sabrina Polin is a managing editor of video content for the Learning Content team. She plans and develops video content for TechTarget's editorial YouTube channel, Eye on Tech. Previously, Sabrina was a reporter for the Products Content team.