Computer Network and Its Types

 

Introduction to Computer Network

Computer Network is the interconnection between multiple devices. Computer Network allows to send and receive data and information between different connected devices. Different devices in a network are connected through links.

Types of Computer Networks

 

• Personal Area Network (PAN)
• Local Area Network (LAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Wide area network (WAN)        

Explanation 

 ● Personal Area Network (PAN)

A Personal Area Network (PAN) connects devices within an individual’s immediate vicinity, typically within a range of about 10 meters (33 feet). It enables communication and data sharing between personal devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, smartwatches, and other wearable devices

 

 

● LAN (Local Area Network)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a group of connected devices that are in a limited area such as a school, office, building, or home. It is a network mostly used for sharing hardware resources such as printers, files, scanners, etc. If we talk about the simplest LAN network then we will consider a computer and a printer connected in a home as the simplest network. The data transmission speed of the LAN is up to 10 Mbps. 

● MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

A Metropolitan Area Network or MAN is a network connecting devices across an entire town, entire city, or any other small region. This is a network larger than LAN but smaller than the WAN. WAN stands for Wide Area Network which is used to connect devices geographically such as across the country or continent. MAN network works between LAN and WAN. MAN can be used to connect multiple LAN networks.

 

 ● WAN (Wide Area Network)

WAN stands for Wide Area Network is a type of computer network which can cover a large geographical area such as a continent, or a country. The size of the WAN network is larger than the LAN and MAN network. When the size of the network grows more than the MAN then it is considered a WAN. WAN Network could be an interconnection between two or more LANs that are connected through telephone lines or radio waves.

Conclusion 

In this interconnected world, understanding the diverse types of networks empowers us to harness their capabilities, explore new opportunities, and navigate the ever-expanding frontiers of the digital age. Whether connecting people, devices, or systems, networks are the threads that weave us together, enabling collaboration, information sharing, and transformation on a global scale.