Types of computer network - PAN, LAN, MAN and WAN

Types of Computer Network

A computer network means a group of networked computers. A network can be a small group of linked computers or can be a large group. Thus networks vary in size and complexity.  There can be four types of networks on the basis of geographical spread.

1. Personal area network (PAN)
2. Local area network (LAN)
3. Metropolitan area network (MAN)
4. Wide area network (WAN)

Personal area network (PAN)

A personal area network organized around an individual person, typically within a 10-metre range. For example- a person has a laptop, mobile phone, PDA and any portable printer all are connected with a single Wi-Fi network.

Local area network (LAN)

A local area network is a computer network that interconnects computer within a limited area such as Residency, School, laboratory, University campus, or office building.  The key purpose of a LAN  is to serve its user in resource sharing. The hardware, as well as software resources, are shared through LANs.

Metropolitan area network (MAN)

Metropolitan Area Network is the networks spread over a city.  For example -  cable TV Network that is spread over a city. It is just a bigger version of LAN and normally uses similar Technology. MAN is also the sharing of hardware and software resources along with its user.

Wide area network (WAN)

The network spread across the large geographical area like countries are known as wide area networks. A wide area network is a group of LANs that are spread across several locations and connected together to look like one big LAN.  Wide area network link offers computer to exchange information at laser costs and higher speeds. The internet is the largest WAN,  spanning the entire Earth.