Computer networking plays crucial role in transmitting data across platforms. Besides, it is one of the core components of computing. It typically handles data while it is in motion. Moreover, there are different types of computers networks in use including the following:
Local Area Network (LAN): A network that connects network devices such as switches, bridges, etc. on a single location. This network covers a limited geographical are such as a floor or entire building.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A connection of multiple LANs and mainly spans an entire city.
Wide Area Network (WAN): A type of network that connects multiple LANS, MANs, even the Internet to create larger networks. Moreover, it covers broad geographic area and is applicable to connect remote networks as well.
Campus Area Network (CAN): A network that connects multiple LANs. Besides, it is a type of network in buildings in the same compound or limited geographical areas.
Personal Area Network (PAN): A network that connects devices, usually mobile devices, located in close proximity. Example: Bluetooth
The Internet: The Internet is the largest WAN network in the world that connects people and systems across the continent and beyond.
Intranet Network: This is a local network within an organization. It enables users to exchange information and store data.
Extranet network: A type of network that connects two or more organizations. This type of network will have internal and external networks. And the organization will use the external network, such as a web portal, to share information with partners, vendors, customers, and others leaving the internal network secure and intact.