Computer Network Types

Bluetooth

A short-range wireless technology, about 30 feet, designed for ongoing connections between devices like earbuds, smartwatches, or speakers.

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)

A version of Bluetooth designed for devices that need to use very little power, such as fitness trackers.

Cell

The local area around a cellular tower where your mobile device connects using radio signals.

Cellular Network

A wide-area wireless network built by telecom carriers, using cell towers to connect billions of mobile devices across large geographic areas.

Extranet

A private network that extends limited access to an intranet to trusted outside parties like suppliers or partners.

Internet

The global network of interconnected networks that links billions of devices worldwide.

Intranet

A private network within an organization that uses internet technologies but is accessible only to members or employees.

Mesh Network

A type of network where each device, or node, connects directly to multiple other devices, so data can take many possible paths to reach its destination.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A network that covers a city or campus, connecting multiple LANs over a larger area.

NFC Tags

Tiny chips embedded in stickers or cards that trigger an action when scanned by a phone or other NFC device.

Near Field Communication (NFC)

A very short-range wireless technology, about 4 cm, used for secure, one-time interactions such as contactless payments.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

A small network that connects devices within the range of one person, usually just a few feet.

Wi-Fi

The standard wireless technology for local networks, allowing devices to connect using radio signals.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A network that spans large distances, connecting networks across countries or continents. The internet is the largest example of a WAN.

Z-Wave

Another low-power, short-range wireless standard for IoT devices, often used in lighting, locks, and sensors.

Zigbee

A low-power, short-range wireless technology designed for IoT devices, often used in smart homes.