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Introduction
This blog will mainly discuss all the different types of networks we have discovered in computer networking. Before jumping on the types of networks, let’s first understand what a network is,
A network is a set of devices(often referred to as nodes) connected by communication links.
A node can be a computer, printer, or any other device capable of sending and/or receiving data generated by other nodes on the network.
A link can be a cable, air, optical fiber, or any medium which can transport a signal carrying information.
Computer networking is a word derived from a Computer network. The computer network is a combination of shared resources established by the network of devices/nodes. The devices use communication protocols above digital interconnections to interact with each other. These interconnections are built up of telecommunication network technologies.
Computer networks play a vital role in how we connect, communicate, and share information. Below are the five main uses of computer networks:
Communication and Information Sharing Computer networks allow people to send emails, make video calls, and share files easily from one system to another across the world.
Resource Sharing Networks let users share printers, scanners, internet connections, and files without needing to duplicate hardware for every user.
Remote Access Users can access data and software from remote locations, making it easier to work from home or connect to servers anytime.
Data Backup and Recovery Networks support automated backups of important files to secure storage locations, helping in quick recovery after data loss.
Entertainment and Media Access From streaming videos and online gaming to accessing music and social media, networks power much of today’s entertainment experiences.
Network Criteria
A network provided must be able to meet a certain number of criteria, let’s discuss them one by one,
Performance
Performance depends on the network elements.
It can be measured in terms of transit time and response time.
It is evaluated by two networking metrics: Throughput and Delay.
Reliability
The failure rate of network components measures reliability.
It is measured in terms of availability/robustness.
Security
Data protection against corruption/loss of data due to errors and malicious users.
Wireless PAN: This type uses technologies like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to connect personal devices wirelessly over a short distance, usually within 10 meters.
Wired PAN: Devices are connected using cables (like USB), offering stable and secure communication for a single user’s personal use.
Advantages of PAN
Low Setup Cost: PAN is affordable and easy to set up.
User-Friendly: Connecting personal devices is simple and quick.
Portability: Wireless PAN allows mobile device usage on the go.
Efficient Communication: Enables quick data sharing between nearby devices.
Secure for Personal Use: PAN is usually private and less prone to external threats.
Disadvantages of PAN
Limited Range: PAN works within a very short distance.
Low Speed: It may offer slower data transfer than larger networks.
Device Compatibility: Some devices may not support PAN standards.
Interference Issues: Wireless PANs can face signal disruptions.
Applications of PAN
Home automation systems
Office device synchronization
Educational device connectivity
Fitness and health trackers
Personal communication between smartphones and laptops
Wide Area Network
Wide Area Network is commonly known as WAN.
This type of network helps to connect devices at various geographical locations with the help of a shared communication path.
It is a kind of group of local area networks.
Campus Area Network
Campus Area Network is commonly known as CAN.
It is a type of network which is bigger than the Local Area Network.
It is a type of network which is smaller than the Metropolitan Area Network.
This type of network is responsible for covering a limited geographical area.
Advantages of CAN
Speed CAN offers fast and efficient communication between devices, especially in real-time systems like automobiles. It ensures timely data transfer even with multiple nodes on the network.
Security CAN provides robust error detection and handling mechanisms. This helps maintain data integrity and ensures reliable communication between devices.
Cost-effectiveness CAN reduces the need for complex wiring by using a single bus line. This lowers installation and maintenance costs, making it an economical solution for embedded systems.
Wireless Local Area Network
Wireless Local Area Network is commonly known as WLAN.
This type of network is also considered a Local area network, but it makes use of Wi-fi. Basically, it is a type of network that connects two or more devices using wireless communication.
This type of network allows communication without cables.
Advantages of WAN
Covers Large Geographical Areas WAN allows devices to connect over vast distances, making it ideal for global business operations and communication.
Centralized Data Access Organizations can store data in one central server and provide access to all users across different locations.
Boosts Communication WAN supports email, VoIP, and video conferencing, which improves collaboration between remote teams.
Supports Business Growth It enables businesses to expand their networks as they grow, connecting new offices or branches easily.
Disadvantages of WAN
High Installation and Maintenance Costs Setting up and maintaining WAN is expensive due to networking hardware, leased lines, and security systems.
Slower Speed Compared to LAN WANs can experience delays or lower speeds, especially with long-distance data transmission.
Security Risks Data travels through public networks, increasing the risk of hacking or unauthorized access without strong security.
Complex Setup and Management WAN requires skilled professionals to manage its configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Metropolitan Area Network
Metropolitan Area Network is commonly known as MAN.
This type of network is larger than the Local Area Network, but it is smaller than Wide Area Network.
This type of network deals with the connections which are made across cities or large areas.
Metropolitan names in this network are not referred to only metropolitan cities.
Advantages of MAN
Covers Large Urban Areas MAN can connect multiple buildings or offices within a city, making it ideal for universities or corporate campuses.
High Data Speed It offers faster data transfer compared to WAN due to shorter distances and better infrastructure.
Efficient Resource Sharing Users across the city can easily share files, printers, and internet connections.
Supports Multiple Networks MAN can connect several LANs together, helping businesses and institutions manage data across locations.
Improves Communication It enables real-time communication between offices in a metropolitan area through email, VoIP, or internal chat systems.
Disadvantages of MAN
High Setup and Maintenance Costs Installing and maintaining a MAN involves costly hardware, cables, and professional support.
Complex Configuration It requires advanced network setup and skilled technicians for smooth operation.
Privacy Concerns As data moves across a wide area, it becomes more vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Limited to Metropolitan Areas MAN cannot be used outside city limits, restricting its usage for rural or remote areas.
Downtime Issues A failure in the central node or network equipment can affect all connected users across the city.
Other Types of Computer Networks
System Area Network
System Area Network is also commonly referred to as SAN.
This type of network mainly targets connecting a group of high-performance computers.
This network is also a type of Local Area Network, but it contains a high volume of information in large requests.
Storage Area Network
Storage Area Network is also commonly referred to as SAN.
This type of network connects a cluster of storage devices to various servers.
This is a type of network that doesn’t depend on a Local Area Network or Wide Area Network.
This network provides permission to block-level data storage.
Enterprise Private Network
Enterprise Private Network is commonly known as EPN.
This type of network is frequently used by companies/businesses that want a private and secure network.
We can share various computer resources in various locations.
Virtual Private Network
Virtual Private Network is also referred to as VPN.
This type of network helps us to enlarge our private network throughout the internet.
It allows users to send and receive data.
With the help of a Virtual Point-to-Point network, the user can remotely access the private network.
This type of network protects the devices from malicious sources.
Passive Optical Local Area Network
Passive Optical Local Area Network is commonly known as POLAN.
This type of network acts as an alternative to LAN.
This type of network uses optical splitters to split all the optical signals.
It is a kind of point to multipoint Local Area Network architecture.
Home Area Network
Home Area Network is commonly referred to as HAN.
It is a type of Local Area Network, but it is associated with a home only.
This type of network connects all the computers in a home altogether.
It is used to share resources and other data within a network.
This type of network is fully functional with wired as well as wireless communication.
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