In this article, we will study about various types of computer networks.
Highlights:
1. What is Computer Networking
2. Types of Computer Networks
What is Computer Networking?
A computer network is a group of computers that are linked to each other so that they can communicate with each other and share resources, data and applications.
Types of Computer Networks
There are mainly following types of Computer Networks:
1. LAN
2. MAN
3. WAN
4. PAN
1. LAN (Local Area Network)
LAN is a group of computers connected with each other in a small area like office, home etc. The computers are connected using cables, hubs, network adapters etc. The data is transferred with a very high speed in LAN.
2. PAN (Personal Area Network)
PAN is used for connecting the computers of personal use within a range of 10 metres. There are 2 types of Personal Area Networks:
1. Wired Personal Area Network
2. Wireless Personal Area Network
Wireless Personal Area Network: Wireless Personal Area Network is developed by simply using wireless technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth. It is a low range network.
Wired Personal Area Network: Wired Personal Area Network is created by using the USB.
Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity):
Wi-Fi is a way of connecting to a computer network using radio waves instead of wires. It was invented to connect computers that are near each other, and nowadays is much used for Internet connections.
Bluetooth: Bluetooth is used for wireless communication over short distances. It was developed in the 1990s, to reduce the number of cables. Devices such as mobile phones, laptops, PCs, printers, digital cameras etc can connect to each other, and exchange information. This is done using radio wave
3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
A metropolitan area network is a network that covers a larger area by interconnecting a different LAN to form a larger network. MAN is used to connect various LAN’s with each other using telephone exchange line. It has a higher range than LAN. Examples of MAN are banks within a city, communication within military etc.
4. WAN (Wide Area Network)
A Wide Area Network is a network that extends over a large geographical area such as states or countries. The internet is one of the biggest WAN in the world. A Wide Area Network is widely used in the field of Business, government, and education. Examples of WAN are Internet (4G Network).
Cloud Computers
Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet for storing and managing data on remote servers, and then access data via the internet. One such example is Google cloud.
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