What is artificial neural network and why it is used for?

Diagram of an artificial neural network (ANN) illustrating interconnected nodes and layers, used for machine learning, deep learning, and AI applications.
27 Feb 2025

The role of Artificial Neural Networks in Artificial Intelligence includes automation, predictive analysis, and deep learning advancements.

The concept of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is one of the foundational pillars of modern machine learning and artificial intelligence. Computer models modeled after the biological neurons in the human brain are used in artificial brain networks to evaluate data, identify patterns and make predictions based on prior knowledge. 

 

These models are extensively utilized in many different fields, including banking, healthcare and driverless cars, among others. These models are widely used in various domains such as healthcare, finance, autonomous vehicles and more.

 

The importance of Artificial Neural Network in Machine Learning cannot be overstated. They drive algorithms for deep learning that enable machines to carry out tasks like recommendation systems, image recognition and natural language processing that traditionally needed human intellect. But what precisely are artificial neural systems and why are they used in so many different domains?   

 

This article will look at the design, function and significance of computer-generated neural networks as well as their real-world applications and comprehensive operating manual.

 

What is Artificial Neural Network?

 

An Artificial Neural Network is a computational model composed of Artificial Neurons also referred to as perceptrons which collaborate to process information. The structure of an Artificial Neural Network Model is composed of interconnected node layers that transform input data into output that can be used. 

 

The three fundamental layers of a synthetic neural network are as follows:

 

1. Input Layer: The first layer that receives raw data for processing.

 

2. Hidden Layer (s): One or more intermediate layers where data transformations occur through weighted connections and activation functions also.

 

3. Output Layer: The final layer that delivers the processed results.

 

Each Artificial Neuron in the network is connected to others through weighted pathways allowing the network to learn from input data through a process known as training. The network increases the precision and effectiveness of its predictions by modifying these weights over a number of rounds.

 

What Are the Three Elements of Artificial Neural Network?

 

1. Artificial Neurons: These are the fundamental processing units in an Artificial Neural Network Model. After processing input signals using an activation function they produce output signals.  Similar to biological neurons in the human brain, these artificial neurons are crucial for the transfer and modification of information. The efficacy of an ANN is greatly influenced by the arrangement and connections of these neurons also.

 

2. Weighted Connections: These define the relationship between different Artificial Neurons. The network must be able to learn by correctly assigning and also tuning the weights to each connection between neurons, which determines the degree of influence one neuron has on another. During training, optimization techniques are used to continuously modify the weights in order to reduce errors and increase prediction accuracy.

 

3. Activation Functions: These mathematical functions decide whether a neuron should be activated based on the weighted sum of its inputs. The network may discover intricate patterns and relationships in data thanks to the non-linearity that activation functions bring into the system.  The sigmoid functions tanh (hyperbolic tangent) and ReLU (rectified linear unit) are common activation functions and each has unique benefits for various applications.

 

These three elements work together to allow Artificial Neural Network in Machine Learning to process data, recognize patterns and make intelligent decisions making them powerful tools in AI applications.

 

 

Different Artificial Brain Network Types

 

There are different types of Artificial Neural Network Models each suited for specific tasks:

 

 

 

 

- Feedforward neural networks (FNNs): The unidirectional flow of data from input to output simplifies and increases the effectiveness of pattern recognition.

 

- Convolutional Neural Network (CNN): CNNs are widely employed in image processing and also are particularly good at detecting spatial hierarchies in data.

 

- Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs): Developed for sequential data processing RNNs are employed in time-series analysis and speech recognition also.

 

- Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs): These networks are helpful in artistic and design applications since they produce fresh data instances that mimic training data.

 

Difference Between Neural Networks and Artificial Networks of Neurons

 

Although the terms artificial networks of neurons and neural networks are frequently used synonymously they have different meanings:

 

1. In artificial intelligence "neural network" refers to both biological and also synthetic models that mimic the workings of the human brain.

 

2. In machine learning applications artificial brain networks are computer models created especially to mimic the behavior of organic neurons.

 

While biological neural networks function organically through complex biochemical reactions, Artificial Neural Networks in Machine Learning operate using mathematical functions and algorithms to process data and make decisions.

 

How Are AI Neural Networks Operational?

 

To understand how an Artificial Neural Network Model functions let's break it down into distinct phases:

 

1. Data Input: The network also receives vectors that represent numerical input data.

 

2. Weight Assignment: A beginning weight is randomly selected for every neural connection.

 

3. Forward Propagation: Using weighted connections and activation functions hidden layers process the input data as it moves through the network.

 

4. Error Calculation: The error is calculated by comparing the output with the actual expected result.

 

5. Backward Propagation (Backpropagation): The network adjusts its weights based on the error using optimization techniques like gradient descent.

 

6. Learning and Iteration: To reduce mistakes and increase precision the procedure is carried out several times.

Through these steps an Artificial Neural Network in Machine Learning learns to recognize patterns and make intelligent decisions.

 

Challenges in Training Artificial Neural Networks

 

Despite their advantages Artificial brain networks face challenges such as:

 

- An overfit: when training input is memorized by the network rather than patterns being generalized.

 

- Computational Cost: A significant amount of computing power is needed to train deep networks.

 

- Hyperparameter Adjustment: Performance is greatly impacted by selecting the appropriate activation functions, learning rate and number of layers.

 

Artificial Neural Network is Used For?

 

Because artificial brain networks can efficiently process complicated data they are often utilized in many different industries. Among the most prominent uses are:

 

1. Image and Speech Recognition: This technology which is used in virtual assistants such as Siri and also Google Assistant as well as facial recognition systems aids in the analysis of medical photographs to detect ailments.

 

2. Financial Market Predictions: Makes use of past data to examine trends in the stock market and also help spot fraudulent activity in banking systems.

 

3. Autonomous Vehicles: These vehicles use sensor data interpretation to make decisions on how to drive in real time.

 

4. Healthcare Diagnosis: Based on a patient's symptoms and medical history, it helps anticipate diseases.

 

5. Natural Language Processing (NLP): Facilitates automatic translation and sentiment analysis and enables chatbots and virtual assistants to comprehend and analyze human language.

 

By leveraging these applications, Artificial Neural Networks in Machine Learning and Neural Network in Artificial Intelligence continue to shape the future of technology and AI-driven solutions.

 

In summary, a key component of contemporary artificial intelligence are neural networks made up of computers, which allow machines to process information in a manner akin to that of the human brain. Their ability to learn from data, recognize patterns and make predictions makes them invaluable in a wide range of applications.

 

Understanding the difference between neural network and artificial neural network, knowing what are the three elements of artificial neural network and applying with the use of neural networks that are artificial in machine learning, industries may create more intelligent, more efficient AI-driven solutions. 

 

Artificially intelligent neural networks will only become more significant as technology develops, completely changing how humans interact with data and technologies.

 

Read More: Artificial Intelligence in Cambodia: Advancing Education and Security