Networking types

The Network allows computers to connect and communicate with different computers via any medium. LAN, MAN and WAN are the three major Networking types designed to operate over the area they cover. There are some similarities and dissimilarities between them. One of the major differences is the geographical area they cover, i.e. LAN covers the smallest area; MAN covers an area larger than LAN and WAN comprises the largest of all.

There are other types of Computer Networks also, like

·         PAN (Personal Area Network)

·         SAN (Storage Area Network)

·         EPN (Enterprise Private Network)

·         VPN (Virtual Private Network)

LAN or Local Area Network connects network devices in such a way that personal computer and workstations can share data, tools and programs. The group of computers and devices are connected together by a switch, or stack of switches, using a private addressing scheme as defined by the TCP/IP protocol.

MAN or Metropolitan area Network covers a larger area than that of a LAN and smaller area as compared to WAN. It connects two or more computers that are apart but resides in the same or different cities. It covers a large geographical area and may serve as an ISP (Internet Service Provider). MAN is designed for customers who need a high-speed connectivity.

WAN or Wide Area Network is a computer network that extends over a large geographical area, although it might be confined within the bounds of a state or country.