A network is a system that connects multiple devices, such as computers, servers, smartphones, and printers, allowing them to communicate and share resources, data, and services.
A network is mainly of four types:
- LAN(Local Area Network)
- PAN(Personal Area Network)
- MAN(Metropolitan Area Network)
- WAN(Wide Area Network)
1.) Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN is a network that connects computers and devices within a small geographic area, such as an office building, school, or home.
- It’s typically limited to a single building or campus.
Characteristics:
- Limited geographical area (usually up to a few kilometers).
- High data transfer speeds due to limited range (often 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps).
- Low latency and high reliability.
- Usually privately owned and operated.
- Commonly uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi technology.
- Easier to set up, secure, and maintain than larger networks.
2.) Personal Area Network (PAN)
A PAN is a small network used for personal devices, typically within a range of a few meters, such as around an individual’s workspace.
Characteristics:
- Very limited range (often up to 10 meters).
- Often uses wireless technology like Bluetooth or USB connections.
- Designed to connect personal devices, such as smartphones, laptops, headphones, and smartwatches.
- Easy to set up and secure; usually managed by a single person.
- Low power requirements, making it suitable for mobile devices.
3.) Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A MAN is a network that covers a larger geographical area than a LAN, covering a city or large campus.
- It connects multiple LANs within a metropolitan area.
- It is used in communication between the banks in a city.
- It can be used in an Airline Reservation.
- It can be used in a college within a city.
- It can also be used for communication in the military.
Characteristics:
- Covers a city or a large campus (up to 50 km).
- Often uses high-speed fiber-optic cables for fast data transmission.
- Can be owned by a government, organization, or ISP.
- Provides high-speed connectivity across multiple locations within a city.
- More complex setup and maintenance than LANs due to a larger area.
4.) Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN is a network that covers a very large geographical area, such as a country or even globally, connecting multiple LANs, MANs, or other WANs.
Characteristics:
- Covers broad areas, from cities to countries and continents.
- Uses various transmission technologies, including satellite, fiber-optic, and microwave links.
- Operated by large organizations, governments, or ISPs.
- Slower data transfer speeds compared to LANs and MANs due to distance.
- Requires complex infrastructure and maintenance.
- Example: The Internet, the largest WAN, connects networks worldwide.
