Introduction
Since the invention of computers, files and resources sharing have always been everyday activity of computer users. Transmission of files without the use of external drives like USB drives, CDs, floopy disk e.t.c requires a network.
Thus, in this post, we are going to talk about what is computer network: types of computer network and advantages of computer network.
What is Computer Network?
The term computer network refers to a set of electronic devices connected through links to access the internet and also capable of receiving and sending data. A computer network can be a combination of computer, printer, mobile phone or any other devices capable of sending or receiving data. The links connecting the computer network are known as communication channels. Furthermore, the computer network are set of devices which are connected to each other and follow similar usage rules for the purpose of information sharing by the networking nodes.
Types of Computer Networks
The following are the main five types of computer network:
1. LAN (Local Area Network)
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a collection of devices connected together in one physical location, such as a building, office, or home. Devices links in a small network, either in a building or office.
Benefits of Local Area Network (LAN)
- It is less expensive
- It uses Ethernet or Token-ring technology
- Multiple devices can be connected through wires or cables acting as nodes
- Transfer of data is fast and efficient
2. PAN (Personal Area Network)
A personal area network is a network concerned with the exchange of information in the vicinity of a person. Typically, these systems are wireless and involve the transmission of data between devices such as smart phones, personal computers, tablet computers, etc.
Benefits of Personal Area Network
- It is a mini computer network
- It can be connected from a 10metre range
- It covers a large area
- It can be use to connect personal devices.
3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network with a size greater than LAN but smaller than a WAN. It normally comprises networked interconnections within a city that also offers a connection to the Internet. Network size generally ranges from 5 to 50 km.
This type of network can be used to connect citizens with the various Organizations
4. WAN (Wide Area Network)
A wide area network (WAN) is a large computer network that connects groups of computers over large distances. WANs are often used by large businesses to connect their office networks; each office typically has its own local area network, or LAN, and these LANs connect via a WAN.
Benefits of Wide Area Network
- It covers a large range of people
- It is used to connect telephones
- It is the largest internet
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A virtual private network (VPN) is a technology that creates a safe and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the internet. A Virtual Private Network is a way to extend a private network using a public network such as the internet.
Benefits of Virtual Private Network
- it uses public wires to connect a private network.
- it uses encryptions and other security protocols to ensure only authorized users can access