A computer network is a network in which two or more computers are connected to communicate data electronically.
Devices connected in a network use different types of protocols and algorithms for communication purposes and to specify how devices transfer and receive data.
Types of computer network
Computer Networks are categorized according to their size and It is mainly of four types which are as follows
LAN(Local Area Network)
PAN(Personal Area Network)
MAN(Metropolitan Area Network)
WAN(Wide Area Network)
LAN(Local Area Network)
In this type of network, computers are connected in a small area like a building, office, etc.
It is mainly used to connect two personal computers using twisted pair cable, and coaxial cable.LAN provides high security as compared to others. LAN also offers high-speed transmission of data from one computer to another.
LAN can be used between two computers connected using a network card or between multiple computers connected using a Hub/Router.
Advantage of LAN
- The implementation of LAN is less costly.
- It is easy to control and manageable.
- Configuration of LAN is also easy due to its protocols.
- In LAN, sharing files and folders among peers will become very easy and efficient due to the file server connected to the LAN.
- It is easy to share resources such as printers and the internet with other computers connected to the same LAN network.
Disadvantage of LAN
- LAN covers a small geographical area.
- Viruses affect easily other computers in a network if one computer comes in contact with the virus.
- In LAN, Special security measures are required to stop unauthorized access to programs and data of computers.
PAN(Personal Area Network)
In this type of network devices like computers, laptops, cellphones, printers, or other wearable devices are connected in a very small area of 10 meters. As its name indicates it’s a personal network of a user. The man behind the PAN network is Thomas Zimmerman. The range of PAN is 30 feet. This network is used for personal use.
Wireless Personal Area Network
Wireless Personal Area Network includes wireless technology like Bluetooth, WiFi, etc, which has a low range. It can be used for communication between nearby devices.
MAN(Metropolitan Area Network)
In This type of network, computers, and devices are connected in a huge geographical area. It is used to provide connectivity between computers placed within cities. In MAN, many LANs are combined using a single telephone exchange line. The protocol used in MAN is frame relay.
Advantage of MAN
- It provides a larger and controllable computer network.
- It costs less compared to WAN.
- It provides high security compared to WAN.
- It also offers centralized management of data and files.
Disadvantage of MAN
- It becomes difficult to manage the network once it becomes large.
- It is difficult to secure it from hackers.
- It requires skilled technicians and more cables for connection and network administration for the smooth functioning of the network.
Where MAN is used
MAN network is used in banks, Airline reservations, Colleges, and the Military for communication between systems.
WAN(Wide Area Network)
In This type of network, computers, and devices are connected in a very large geographical area. It is used to provide connectivity between computers placed in different cities or countries. As its name suggests this network is much wider than LAN and MAN.
Internet is an example of WAN.
Advantage of WAN
- WAN covers a large geographical area of 1000 km or more.
- It also offers centralized management of data and files.
- It helps businesses to expand globally.
- WAN provides high bandwidth.
Disadvantage of WAN
- WAN has security problems.
- The cost to implement WAN is high.
- It requires a good firewall and antivirus program.
- WAN has troubleshooting issues due to its large geographical area.