Types of Networks

Q1: What is a PAN (Personal Area Network)?

A: PAN is the smallest network, covering a very short range (typically within 10 meters), used for connecting personal devices like smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches.
🧪 Example: Bluetooth connection between your phone and wireless earbuds.

Q2: What is a LAN (Local Area Network)?

A: LAN connects computers and devices within a limited area like a home, office, or school.
💡 Speed: High
🧪 Example: Wi-Fi in your house or a school computer lab.

Q3: What is a CAN (Campus Area Network)?

A: CAN connects multiple LANs within a limited geographical area, such as a university campus or business complex.
🧪 Example: A university network connecting all departments and labs.

Q4: What is a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)?

A: MAN covers a city or large campus, larger than a LAN or CAN but smaller than a WAN.
🧪 Example: A city-wide public Wi-Fi network or the network used by multiple branches of a company in a city.

Q5: What is a WAN (Wide Area Network)?

A: WAN spans large geographical areas, often connecting multiple LANs and MANs.
🧪 Example: The internet, corporate networks between offices in different countries.

Q6: What is a GAN (Global Area Network)?

A: GAN is a network that supports global communication, often using satellite links to connect remote regions.
🧪 Example: Global mobile networks or satellite-based internet like Starlink.

Q7: What’s the difference between LAN and WAN?

A:

• LAN: Local, fast, private, cheaper to set up.

• WAN: Global, slower (relatively), uses public or leased communication lines, more complex.