Different types of networks ( LAN, MAN, WAN )

The Network allows a computer or laptop to communicate with each other via different mediums such as LAN, WAN, etc. As per studies, Currently, there are 10 (approx.) different types of networks present in the market. The Name of the networks are:- 

• Local Area Network                    (LAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network        (MAN)
• Wide Area Network                    (WAN)
• Personal Area Network               (PAN)
• Campus Area Network                (CAN)
• System Area Network                 (SAN)
• Wireless Local Area Network     (WLAN)
• Passive Optical Local Area Network(POLAN)
• Enterprise Private Network         (EPN)
• Virtual Private Network               (VPN)

But we consider you to study only the main type of computer networks. 

So, The 3 Main Computer networks are:- 

1. Local Area Network (LAN)
2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
3. Wide Area Network (WAN). 

These 3 networks are important for the study and the rest of the networks are similar to these three. If you understand these 3 computer networks well, then you will also understand the rest of the computer network easily.  

Local Area Network (LAN)

LAN is the most common, simple, and frequently used computer network. In this type of network two or more computers or devices are connected through the network in such a way that a computer can easily share its data, programs, tools, etc. The group of computers or a device are connected together by a switch or a router. 

In this network, Data Transmit speed is high because only a couple of devices are connected through it so the data transmission speed is high.

There are a lot of advantages of LAN. One of the important advantages of this network was in this network your data are only accessible for those who are connected through LAN. So LAN is considered one of the safest types of networks. 

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

Man or metropolitan area network covers a larger area compared to LAN and smaller area compared to WAN. In this type of network, two or more computers and devices are connected with an area of 0 to 25 Km basically span an entire city or a town. This type of network is used by Internet Service Providers (ISP). This type of network is handled by a person or an organization or company. 

One of the best examples of this network was a cable TV network, which is only capable of providing its services only a fixed graphical area.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

As per the name, this network has no limitation or boundation. This type of network has no fixed graphical area. He can extend all over the world. WAN is generally a connection between LAN and MAN. WAN has the slowest data transmit speed because of the larger distances. 

WAN network has a lot of disadvantages. Because anyone can (hackers or crackers) assess your personal data. There is no data privacy on this network. In this network, optical fiber cables are used to transmit the data. Internet and telecommunication are the best examples of this network.