Types Of Computer Networks

Table of Contents

Types Of Computer Networks :

Before Types Of Computer Networks we need to know, What is Network?, Definition of a computer network : The different interconnected entities form a network. Then we should know, What is Computer Network?, So The Computer Network is a connection of a computer system with other multiple computers systems located in different places to exchange or share the information and resources.

Types Of Computer Networks :

PAN (Personal Area Network) :

As the name suggests this network is for personal use, the data can be shared by using wired and wireless technologies. bluetooth and wifi are the PAN networks with a range of less than 10metres. This is so easy than any other network types.

LAN (Local Area Network) :

This is the simple network types which can easily be implemented, it has a limited area for connecting the computers. It provides high-speed data transfer from 100mbps to 1gbps. Its high range is 10km and low range is up to 1km. It uses coaxial, fiber optic, twisted pair cables and wi-fi for transferring the data. This type of network owned by single organizations like college, office, society, etc. LAN can connect Printers, personal computers and workstations.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) :

This network is like a LAN but it covers the entire city having a high-speed connection with coaxial cables and microwave links. It works on the second layer of OSI (Open System Interconnection) Model i. e Data link layer having the range of 100km. Its example is the cable television network in cities.

WAN (Wide Area Network) :

Its installation is complex because it connects the computers with each other over the large distance. In this network, routers are used to transfer the data. It has a great range over the 100km with the high-speed communication links like microwave, telephone lines, and satellite links. Its example is the internet. In this, the group of LANs Connected with a router. WAN provides a long distance of data transmission such as image, video, files can be send using this network that may comprise a country or a continent.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) :

It establishes wireless communication between short distance using radio signals and infrared connections. There is no need of cables so that space is used more effectively. In this network, 2 to 100 systems and more can be connected at a time. WLAN can provide mobility, flexibility, portability, and Ease of installation. It contains many devices such as a mobile phone, laptop, printers, audio system, game console, and internet-enabled home appliances and many more.

SAN (Storage Area Network) :

This network provides block level network access to storage which means any host can access data from this server if it needs. It is specialized and high-speed networking type. It plays a role in BCM (business continuity management).
SAN is a group of the host, switches, storage device, i. e interconnected with different technologies, topologies, and protocols. It has a high-speed network of devices, it can connect devices to servers. It also helps in backup and recovery. As because it gives flexibility, availability of the networks and good performance.

Summery :

So computer networking is the network. In which all network-related devices are connected with each other. Though the help of various types of networks for various types of uses. With some limitations and with some advantages. And these networks are used to connect devices. Some networks use for small ranges. And Some uses for a wide area. These networks are LAN (Local Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), SAN (Storage Area Network).

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