Types of networks
There are different types of networks. Common types of networks are: WAN and LAN. There are other types of networks as well: SAN, MAN, BAN, IAN and others. Each network type helps us understand the purpose, design goals, and scale of the network. For example if we say a network is a LAN, we can assume it is a local network, probably in one building or in a reasonably restricted area. We might make an assumption that a LAN has a certain number of devices connected to it. However, if we say a network is a WAN, we might assume it is much larger, and designed to accommodate a much, much larger number of devices.
A helpful video[edit]
Types of networks you should be able to identify[edit]
- local area network (LAN)
- virtual local area network (VLAN)
- wide area network (WAN)
- storage area network (SAN)
- wireless local area network (WLAN)
- internet
- extranet
- virtual private network (VPN)
- personal area network (PAN), peer-to-peer (P2P).
Do you understand this topic?[edit]
At the minimum, you should be able to:
- Identify the different types of networks
- Outline the major differences between types networks
Do you have an advanced understanding about this topic?[edit]
If you want an advanced understanding of this topic, try answering the questions below:
- Design a network based on description of an organizational size and scope
- Estimate the type of network needed for a specific use-case.
What you MUST know about this topic[edit]
- Identify different types of networks.