Types of networks

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Networks[1]

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]

Type of network Characteristics
local area network (LAN) A local area network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, laboratory, university campus or office building[2]
virtual local area network (VLAN) A VLAN is a group of devices on one or more LANs that are configured to communicate as if they were attached to the same wire, when in fact they are located on a number of different LAN segments. [3]
wide area network (WAN) foo
storage area network (SAN) foo
wireless local area network (WLAN) foo
internet foo
extranet foo
virtual private network (VPN) foo
personal area network (PAN) foo
Peer-to-peer (P2P) foo

Do you understand this topic?[edit]

At the minimum, you should be able to:

  1. Identify the different types of networks
  2. 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.

References[edit]