Neural networks—also known as artificial neural networks (ANNs)—are deep learning networks capable of training computers to simulate human thought.

They rely on a series of nodes, layers, and connections, similar to how neurons connect with dendrites and synapses in the human brain. Once they proceed through enough training examples, these artificial networks are also capable of performing tasks much faster than human neural networks can.

These tools are foundational to various types of facial recognition, natural language processing, chatbot, and time series analysis apps and software. In other words, they give your computer vision, speech, and the ability to listen as if it were human itself.

The propagation and application of neural networks for computers began with the study of human neuroscience.

As early as 1943, cognitive scientists Warren McCulloch and Walter Pitts theorized it would be possible to create artificial neurons for computing systems akin to biological neurons. Frank Rosenblatt, a psychologist, deserves attribution for building the first network of this type—known as the perceptron—in 1958.

Since then, computer and data scientists have experimented with ways to improve the functionality of artificial neural networks. The technological approach occasionally falls out of fashion in favor of other deep learning methods, but it’s returned to prominence in recent years.

There are a wide variety of different artificial neural networks suited to unique purposes. Here are a few types of neural nets:

1. Convolutional neural networks: This computational model is especially useful for types of image recognition software. Photos feed through multiple convolutional layers in real time as an algorithm sifts through data to find an exact comparison. The more times this process occurs, the more elegant and intelligent the neural network becomes.

2. Feedforward neural networks: This versatile type of neural network is an astute choice for nonlinear decision-making. Also known as multilevel perceptrons, these nets make use of sigmoid neurons and multiple different layers and thresholds. This multilayered machine learning process helps ensure a quicker turnaround on outputs, as well as more specificity in recognition.

3. Perceptrons: This simple neural network was the first of its kind. Its basic framework still affords machines an almost human level of intelligence. Unlike other, more up-to-date neural nets, a perceptron only has one node. In other words, its learning models are a bit more basic and it has some limitations when it comes to confronting big datasets.

4. Recurrent neural networks: Also known as RNNs, these deep neural networks are notable for their backpropagation prowess. By using feedback loops and regression techniques, RNNs can feed information both backward and forward throughout their neural structures. This enhances their ability to learn new information quickly.

Artificial neurons fire in a similar way to how human ones do. Get a look at how neural network architecture works in the real world:

• Adding information: For big data analysis to be successful, computers need access to wide swaths of information. Computer and data scientists feed tons of use cases to their neural networks as training data in a process called supervised learning. After completing these vast initial tutorials, neural networks can then move on to more unsupervised learning through interacting with everyday users.
• Allowing for multiple layers: Each node in a neural network needs multiple different input layers to approximate human thought. Each input in a deep-learning algorithm carries a different weight as well, which tees up a neuron to either fire or not fire on to the next layer.
• Applying inputs: As neural networks take in input data, they filter each new piece of information through various hidden layers. These assess the features of the information, assigning specific numbers to them to better classify their importance to the algorithm as a whole.
• Assigning weights: After classifying inputs, the neural network’s processors assign a weight value to each one. This is the factor most essential to deciding whether the initial input will pass through the node onto any number of hidden layers, eventually triggering an output. By combining input values and weights, an almost limited array of choices are possible—all of which pass through different layers of the network.
• Comparing against thresholds: The computer will pass through the product and sum of all input and weight values into an activation function. This amount is what ends up determining which output layer an input will eventually pass through as a threshold. Neural optimization of pattern recognition occurs through continuous practice on this front.