Networking 101: Types of Networks

There are five basic types of networks.

1. Personal area network. A PAN is a computer network used for communication among computer devices close to one person and has a reach of about 30 feet. Devices included in a PAN are:  personal computers, fax machines, printers,  telephones, PDAs, scanners, and game consoles.

2. Local area network. A LAN is a computer network that covers a small physical area. Examples of a LAN include a small group of buildings, an office, school, airport, or even a home. Right now, most LANs are based on Ethernet technology.

3. Campus area network. A CAN is larger than a LAN, specific to an academic environment, and consists of an interconnection of LANs that are within a limited physical area like a campus. It’s typically smaller than a WAN, but some consider it a type of WAN.

4. Metropolitan area network. A MAN connects at least two LANs or CANs together but its boundaries don’t extend beyond those of the immediate city it is in. A MAN is created when routers, hubs, and switches connect to create such a network.

5. Wide area network. A WAN is a network with extensive boundaries linking across city, regional, and even national boundaries. The Internet is a WAN.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 16th, 2009 at 8:08 pm