There are two types of communication networks: formal and informal. Formal networks exist within organizations and include chain, Y, wheel, circle, and all channel networks which define the flow of communication. Informal or "grapevine" networks also exist and include single strand, gossip, probability, and cluster patterns where unofficial information is spread.

1. Communication
Networks

2.  There are two types of
communication
networks:-
i. Formal Network
ii. Informal Network

3. Formal Network
Formal network is present mainly in
organizations. There five sub
networks in formal network.
• Chain Network:-
The chain network represents
hierarchy in which communication
can only flow upwards or
downwards.

4. This type of network is found direct
line of authority communications
with no deviations.

5. • Y-Network:-
Y network is an effect of multi layer
hierarchy and a combination of
horizontal and vertical flow of
communication. It is like two
subordinates reporting to one senior.

6. • Wheel Network:-
The wheel network refers to several
subordinates reporting to a superior. This
is a combination of horizontal and
diagonal flow of communication. Here
the subordinates are3 of equal rank and
they do not interact within themselves.

7. • Circle Network:-
The circle network allows the
employees to interact with adjacent
members themselves but no further.

8. • All Channel Network:-
The all channel network allows the
employees to interact with each
other. There are no restrictions on
who can communicate with whom.
All are equal.

9. Informal Network
Besides formal network informal
network is also present in an
organization. It is also called
“GRAPEVINE”.
There are 4 sub networks in informal
network:-

10. • Single Strand:-
Single strand is the way in which
most people view grapevine.
Here,the message is passed
from one person to another
along a single strand.

11. • Gossip:-
In gossip network one person
passes information to all others.

12. • Probability:-
In the probability network, each
person tells others at random.

13. • Cluster:-
Cluster is the most popular pattern of
grapevine communication.
Cluster refers to flow of information in
which some people tell a selected
few of others