The document details various types of computer networks including Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), Personal Area Networks (PAN), Wireless LANs (WLAN), Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Client-Server, and Peer-to-Peer networks. Each type is designed for specific environments and needs, with distinct advantages and disadvantages related to speed, coverage, scalability, and security. Understanding these differences is essential for effective technology deployment and utilization in modern communication.

1. TYPES OF NETWORK
TAGORE GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
PRESENTED BY
ISHAN IBRAHIM
PEDAGOGY OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
B.SC. B.ED. 3RD
YEAR (MATHEMATICS)
(PRACTICUM 2)

2. Types of Networks
Networks are the backbone of modern communication and
information sharing. They come in a variety of types, each
designed to serve specific needs and environments. From local
networks to global connections, understanding the different
network types is crucial for effective technology deployment and
utilization.
by Logan. X.wolverine

3. Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects devices within a limited geographical area,
such as a home, school, or small office. LANs allow for high-speed data transfer, resource sharing, and easy
management of connected devices. They are typically confined to a single location and rely on wired or wireless
technologies for connectivity.

4. Wide Area Network (WAN)
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that spans a large geographical area, often connecting multiple LANs or
other networks across cities, countries, or even continents. WANs enable long-distance communication and data
exchange, allowing organizations to connect remote offices, access cloud-based services, and collaborate globally.
These networks typically utilize high-speed telecommunication technologies, such as leased lines, satellite links,
or virtual private networks (VPNs).

5. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Overview
A Metropolitan Area Network
(MAN) is a computer network that
covers a metropolitan area,
typically a city or a large town.
MANs are larger in scale than
LANs but smaller than WANs,
often serving an entire city or
region.
Applications
MANs are commonly used to
interconnect LANs within a city,
enabling resource sharing, data
exchange, and coordinated
services among organizations and
communities. They are also used
for municipal services, such as
traffic control, public safety, and
smart city initiatives.
Technologies
MANs often utilize fiber-optic
cables, high-speed wireless
technologies, or a combination of
both to provide reliable and high-
bandwidth connections across the
metropolitan area.

6. Personal Area Network (PAN)
1 Definition
A Personal Area Network
(PAN) is a computer
network that interconnects
devices within the
immediate personal
environment of an
individual, such as a home
or office.
2 Connectivity
PANs typically use short-
range wireless
technologies, such as
Bluetooth or infrared, to
connect personal devices
like smartphones, laptops,
and wearables.
3 Applications
PANs enable seamless data and information sharing between
personal devices, allowing users to control, monitor, and
synchronize their digital ecosystem.

7. Wireless Local Area Network
(WLAN)
Definition
A Wireless Local Area Network
(WLAN) is a LAN that uses
wireless technologies, such as
Wi-Fi, to connect devices within
a limited geographic area.
Benefits
WLANs offer increased
mobility, flexibility, and ease of
deployment compared to their
wired counterparts. They
enable seamless connectivity
for portable devices and
eliminate the need for physical
network cables.
Applications
WLANs are widely used in homes, offices, schools, and public spaces
to provide internet access and enable data sharing among connected
devices.

8. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Security
VPNs create a secure, encrypted
connection between a user's device
and a remote network, protecting
sensitive data from unauthorized
access.
Global Connectivity
VPNs enable users to access
resources and services from
anywhere in the world, overcoming
geographical restrictions and
content limitations.
Privacy
VPNs help protect user privacy by
masking the user's IP address and
hiding their online activities from
prying eyes.

9. Client-Server Network
Clients
Devices or software applications that request and
consume resources or services from a central server.
Server
A powerful, centralized computer or system that
provides resources, services, and data to the
connected clients.
Communication
Clients send requests to the server, which processes
the requests and sends the appropriate responses
back to the clients.

10. Peer-to-Peer Network
1 Decentralized
In a peer-to-peer network, there is no central server or
authority. Instead, each node (device) acts as both a client and
a server, sharing resources and services directly with other
nodes.
2 Resource Sharing
Peer-to-peer networks allow users to share files, computing
power, and other resources directly with each other, without
the need for a centralized system.
3 Scalability
As more nodes join the network, the available resources and
bandwidth increase, making peer-to-peer networks highly
scalable and resilient to individual node failures.

11. Advantages and Disadvantages of Network Types
Network Type Advantages Disadvantages
LAN High speed, resource sharing,
easy management
Limited geographical coverage,
potential security risks
WAN Broad geographical coverage,
global connectivity
Higher costs, potential latency,
complex management
MAN Wider coverage than LAN, faster
than WAN
Higher infrastructure costs,
potential compatibility issues
PAN Convenience, seamless device
integration
Limited range, potential security
and privacy concerns
WLAN Mobility, flexibility, ease of
deployment
Lower security, potential
interference, limited range
VPN Secure, global connectivity,
privacy protection
Dependence on third-party
service providers, potential
performance issues
Client-Server Centralized management, scalability Single point of failure, potential
performance bottlenecks
Peer-to-Peer Decentralization, scalability,
resource sharing
Potential security risks, resource
management challenges