Types of Computer Networks

There are different ways to categorize the types of computer networks. One of them is organized by the scale of the network. A computer network can be as simple as connecting two computers (or one computer with a printer, iPod etc.), but also it can cover the connection of millions of computers. In the following, the types are listed:

• PAN - Personal Area Network
• LAN - Local Area Network
• CAN - Campus Area Network
• MAN - Metropolitan Area Network
• WAN - Wide Area Network
• HAN - Home Area Network
• GAN - Global Area Network
• DAN - Desktop Area Network

The first five network types are the ones, which users will come across most often, without sometimes even noticing it. In the following, those five computer networks are described briefly.

Personal Area Network (PAN):
The PAN is the smallest type of a computer network. It is used for the communication among one computer to a number of devices. Some examples, where a PAN is used are printers, facsimiles, telephones, PDA’s, scanners or MP3 players. The reach of a PAN is usually within a few feet (about 20 to 30 feet).

Local Area Network (LAN):
The local area network is usually used within buildings (i.e. homes, offices or libraries). You are on a local area network if two or more computers are connected to each other. The users mostly can connect to local devices such as printers and also connect to the internet. LAN’s usually work with cables and hubs, or wirelessly. If the computers and devices are connected wirelessly, the network is also known as a WLAN: Wireless Local Area Network.

Campus Area Network (CAN):
The campus area network covers areas such as a college campus, an industrial complex, or a military base. It is a network which connects two or more local area networks.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
This type of network also connects two or more local area networks. The range of this network does not extend the boundaries of a town, city, or metropolitan area. MAN’s are used at public utilities, and many businesses and individuals. In recent years, this technology has developed significantly with smaller networks within a Metropolitan Area Network (connected wirelessly using radio-, micro-, or infrared laser waves).

Wide Area Network (WAN):
The wide area network mostly connects the area of several cities and sometimes even the area of several countries. The probably best known Wide Area Network is the internet. Many Wider Area Networks are run by private companies, which are restricted. Compared to the LAN, the WAN has a lower data transfer rate and it also in need of leased telecommunication lines.