A computer network is a group of computers, terminals, and other devices connected together to share data and resources. The first computer networks were developed in the 1960s and they were used to monitor air traffic control systems with a centralized database. Today there are many types of computer networks that are utilized for different purposes such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), metropolitan-area networks (MAN), and personal area networks (PAN). If you have been considering using one or more types of computer networks in your business then you should read this article so that you know what options are available to you!
Computer Network Types WAN
When you’re talking about computer network types, WAN stands for “wide area network.” WANs are used to connect remote offices, branch offices, and telecommuters. They can also be used to connect a small number of computers or a large number of computers in one location.
A WAN connection is always slower than a LAN connection because it has further distances to cover between each node on the network (a node is any device connected to the same network). The speed at which data travels through these connections depends on many factors including:
- Distance between nodes or endpoints (the farther apart they are geographic)
- Protocols used by routers/gateways that pass data between networks
- The capacity of fiber optic cables used by ISPs (Internet Service Providers)
Computer Network Types LAN
LANs are used for connecting computers in a small area, such as a home or office building. LANs can be wired or wireless and are generally fast and reliable. They’re also easier to set up than WANs because they don’t require as much infrastructure, such as cables and routers.
- A LAN will typically include multiple computers (or “nodes”) that share an internet connection through an Ethernet cable or wireless router.
- The nodes on a LAN may include printers, scanners, servers, and other devices that need access to the Internet and each other!
Computer Network Types MAN
MAN is a network that connects different networks. It is used in large organizations and it’s ideal for connecting different departments in a company or buildings in a city.
The MAN architecture has two main components: the backbone and the distribution system. The backbone consists of high-capacity trunks that interconnect switches, routers, etc., while the distribution system provides access to users from various locations via T-1/E-1 lines or fiber optic cable connections
Computer Network Types PAN
A personal area network (PAN) is a small wireless network that connects devices in close proximity, usually within about 10 meters of one another.
PAN includes Bluetooth and WiFi networks. The PAN is the most common type of wireless network because it allows you to easily connect devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops to each other without having to worry about cables or wires getting tangled up.
You Can Use For Your Business
There are many different computer network types you can use for your business. The most popular ones include:
- LAN (Local Area Network) – This is a private network that connects computers within a small area, such as one building or campus, and it’s usually owned by an organization or business.
- WAN (Wide Area Network) – This type of connection allows users to connect to networks over long distances, such as across cities or countries. It often requires dial-up or broadband Internet service providers (ISPs).
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) – A MAN is basically like a LAN but on a larger scale; it can connect multiple buildings within an urban area like New York City or Los Angeles, for example.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has helped you understand the different computer network types and how they work. There are many options available for businesses to choose from when it comes to their computer networks, but knowing what each one does is essential before making any decisions. Knowing what kind of network would be best suited for your business or home needs will make it easier for anyone looking into setting up a new system at home.