Types Of Computer Networks

Ever wondered how devices communicate? Computer networks are like digital highways, connecting computers and devices. The types vary, from the global internet to local home or office networks, each serving specific communication needs. Let us read it in depth in this blog!

Most of us use computers daily to transmit data from one place to another. Almost 80% of the entire world population is familiar with these words: Computer and Networking. But, what if I ask you which computer network you use at your home or organization or how many computer networks are there? Most of us won’t be able to answer these questions. So, let’s dive deeper and find answers to these questions in this article.

But before we do that, let’s understand what a network is. In the computer world, a network is a connection between two or more computers linked to allow communication and sharing of files and other resources. The type of network that best suits you depends on multiple factors, such as the number of devices connected, location and distance between each device, etc.

Table of Content

• Local Area Network (LAN)
• Wide Area Network (WAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Storage Area Network (SAN)
• Virtual Private Network (VPN)
• Personal Area Network (PAN)
• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
• Enterprise Private Network (EPN)

Local Area Network (LAN)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is among the most popular types of computer networks. A LAN network connects a group of computers and peripheral devices in a specific area, such as a school, laboratory, home, or office building. This type of computer network is a popular way to share resources such as files, printers, games, and other applications. A LAN network can be as simple as connecting computers and printers in someone’s home or office.

Wide Area Network (WAN) 

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a type of computer network that connects computers over long distances using a shared communication path. A WAN network is also defined as a collection of local area networks (LANs) that communicate with one another. This type of computer network can connect devices remotely, even if the devices are thousands of miles apart. The Internet is the best example of a WAN network because it connects computers and devices worldwide. Because this type of network is much larger, it requires multiple administrators to maintain it, and ownership is distributed among various organizations.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) 

A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a type of computer network that connects computers within a metropolitan area, such as a single large city, multiple cities, or any large area with multiple buildings. The term “metropolitan” in MAN refers to the size of the network rather than the area’s demographics. A MAN is more significant than a LAN but smaller than a wide area network (WAN). Although a single individual can handle ownership and management, it is mainly managed by a larger organization.

Storage Area Network (SAN) 

A Storage Area Network (SAN), also known as System Area Network, is a type of computer network that can be accessed by different servers or computers and offers a shared pool of storage space. Each computer within the network can access this storage as a local disc connected directly to that computer. This type of computer network is self-contained and fast. SANs are typically made up of hosts, network devices, storage elements and devices that are linked together using a wide range of technologies, network topologies, and protocols.

Virtual Private Network (VPN) 

A VPN establishes a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the Internet. By encrypting your data and concealing your identity, VPN acts as a middleman between you and the network. The encrypted connection aids in the safe transmission of sensitive data. Using this type of computer network can prevent unauthorized people from eavesdropping on your network traffic. VPN is widely used in corporate environments. This type of computer network allows employees to work outside their office while still securely connected to the corporate network using devices such as smartphones, tablets, etc.

Personal Area Network (PAN) 

A Private Area Network (PAN) is the most basic and minor type of computer network. This type of computer network usually covers a 10-meter radius, such as a single room. One person commonly uses a PAN to connect a few devices, such as a computer, smartphone, and printer. Wired or wireless PAN network connections are available. USB and FireWire are examples of wired connection methods; Bluetooth, WiFi, and other wireless connection methods are examples of wireless connection methods.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) 

A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), also known as a Local Area Wireless Network (LAWN), is a network similar to a LAN except that it is based on radio transmissions rather than wired connections. In the same way that a traditional wired LAN transmits data via Ethernet cables, WLAN devices transmit data via WiFi. A WLAN enables you to move around the coverage area, usually a home or small office, while always connected to the network. Anyone connected to Wi-Fi while reading this page is using a WLAN.

Enterprise Private Network (EPN)

An Enterprise Private Network is a type of computer network that a company uses to connect its various branches. This network is primarily designed to share computer resources. Enterprise private networks can be created by utilizing various computer networks such as VPN, LAN, WAN, etc. The goal of using this network is to provide high-speed internet access and data sharing within an organization.

Conclusion

A computer network is at the heart of any successful business. If you are using a network that cannot provide or fulfill all of the requirements for your organization, you may be wasting money. Using an ineffective computer network can harm the company’s reputation. It can also significantly impact daily tasks that were supposed to be completed with the help of the network that the company chose. So, first and foremost, determine your requirements and then list down the type of computer networks that would be best suited to fulfil those requirements based on their perks and drawbacks.