Network
A network is a collection of interconnected devices (such as computers, servers, printers, smartphones, and other hardware) that communicate with each other to share resources, data, and services. Networks enable devices to exchange information and collaborate efficiently
Types of the network
Here’s a table
summarizing different types of networks based on their size, purpose, and
scope:
|
Network Type |
Description |
Scope |
Example Use Cases |
|
PAN (Personal Area Network) |
Connects devices within an individual's
personal space, typically within a range of a few meters. |
Very small (up to 10 meters) |
Connecting a smartphone to a Bluetooth
headset. |
|
LAN (Local Area Network) |
Connects devices within a limited area like
a home, office, or building. |
Small (up to 1 km) |
Office networks, home Wi-Fi networks. |
|
WLAN (Wireless LAN) |
A LAN that uses wireless communication
instead of wired connections. |
Small (up to 100 meters) |
Wi-Fi networks in homes or cafes. |
|
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) |
Covers a larger area than a LAN, such as a
city or campus. |
Medium (up to 50 km) |
City-wide networks for public services. |
|
WAN (Wide Area Network) |
Spans large geographical areas, often
connecting multiple LANs or MANs. |
Large (global or regional) |
The internet, corporate networks across
cities. |
|
CAN (Campus Area Network) |
A network that spans multiple buildings
within a limited geographic area. |
Medium (up to 5 km) |
University campuses, business parks. |
|
SAN (Storage Area Network) |
A specialized network that provides access
to consolidated block-level storage. |
Small to medium |
Data centers, enterprise storage systems. |
|
VPN (Virtual Private Network) |
A secure network connection over the
internet, often used for remote access. |
Can be global |
Remote work, secure access to company
resources. |
|
GAN (Global Area Network) |
A network that spans multiple countries or
continents, often using satellites. |
Global |
Satellite communication networks. |
|
HAN (Home Area Network) |
A network within a home that connects
digital devices. |
Very small (within a home) |
Smart home devices, home automation systems. |
This table provides a
high-level overview of the different types of networks and their typical use
cases. Let me know if you'd like further details on any specific type!