Types of Computer Networks

Computer Network

is a system that connects many independent computers to share information (data) and resources

Personal Area Network (PAN)

most basic type of computer network

designed to connect devices within a short range, typically around one person

Local Area Network (LAN)

most frequently used network

connects computers through a common communication path, contained within a limited area, that is, locally

Campus Area Network (CAN)

bigger than a LAN but smaller than a MAN

usually used in places like a school or colleges

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN

connects computers over a geographical distance through a shared communication path over a city, town, or metropolitan area

Wide Area Network (WAN)

connects computers over a large geographical distance through a shared communication path

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

acts as a local area network but makes use of wireless network technology like Wi-Fi, allows devices to communicate wirelessly

System Area Network (SAN)

designed to connect high-performance computers within a localized, high-speed environment, such as in data centers or supercomputing facilities, proves access to block-level storage

Passive Optical Local Area Network (POLAN)

an alternative to LAN, uses optical splitters to split an optical signal from a single strand of single-mode optical fiber to multiple signals to distribute users and devices

Private Network

networks completely owned and managed by a single organization or individual

Public Network

networks open to the general public and are usually provided by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or businesses in public places

Hybrid Network

blends private and public access, offering flexibility and role-based access control

Internetwork

a setup where two or more networks (like LANs or WANs) are interconnected using routers or gateways, allowing communications between them

Intranet

a private network used within a organization. It allows employees to access internal tools, documents, and system securely

Extranet

an extension of the Intranet that provides limited, secure access to outsiders such as partners, vendors, or clients. It's used to collaborate across organizations while maintaining internal security

Central Storage of Data

Files are stored on a central storage database which helps to easily access and available to everyone

Connectivity

A single connection can be routed to connect multiple computing devices

Sharing of Files

Files and data can be easily shared among multiple devices which helps in easily communicating among the organization

Security through Authorization

Computer Networking provides additional security and protection of information in the system

Virus and Malware

Viruses and Malware can corrupt the entire network

High Cost of Setup

The initial setup of a Computer Network is expensive because it consists of a lot of wires and cables along with the devices

Loss of Information

Incase of a System Failure, it might lead to some loss of data

Management of Network

Network Management is somehow complex for a person, it requires training for its proper use