11 types of networks :
All networks are a collection of computers, servers, mainframes, network devices, or other devices connected to each other to enable data sharing. The Internet is an excellent example of a network. it connects millions of people around the world on the big network. On the right, an example of a home network with multiple computers and other network devices all connected to each other and to the Internet.
We have developed this practical reference guide to explain the types of the networks in use today, and what they serve.
1. Personal Network
The smallest and most basic type of network, a PAN, consists of a wireless modem, a computer or two, telephones, printers, tablets, etc., and is organized around of a person in a building. These types of networks are typically located in small offices or residences and are managed by a person or organization from a single device.
2.Local Network(LAN)
We are convinced that you have already heard of these types of networks – local networks are the most discussed networks, one of the most common, the most original and the simplest.
Local networks connect groups of computers and low-voltage devices over short distances (in a building or between two or three buildings close to each other) to share information and resources. Companies generally manage and maintain local networks.
Using routers, LANs can connect to wide area networks (WAN, explained below) to quickly and securely transfer data.
3. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Functioning as a local network, WLANs use wireless network technology , such as Wireless . Typically visible in the same types of applications as local area networks, these types of networks do not require devices to use physical cables to connect to the network.
4. Campus Network (CAN)
Larger than local networks, but smaller than metropolitan networks (MAN, explained below), these types of networks are typically used in universities, large school districts or small businesses. They can be spread across multiple buildings close enough to each other to allow users to share resources.
5. Metropolitan Network (MAN)
These types of networks are larger than local area networks but smaller than wide area networks – and include elements from both types of networks. MANs cover a whole geographical area (typically a city or campus, sometimes). Ownership and maintenance are managed by one person or company (local council, large company, etc.).
6. Wide Area Network (WAN)
Slightly more complex than a LAN , a WAN connects computers to each other over longer physical distances. This allows computers and low voltage devices to be connected to each other remotely over a large network to communicate even when they are distant from each other.
The Internet is the simplest example of a WAN network, connecting all the computers around the world. Due to the extended reach of the WAN, it is generally owned and managed by multiple administrators or the public.
7.Storage Area Network (SAN)
As a dedicated broadband network that connects shared pools of storage devices to multiple servers, these types of networks do not rely on a local or wide area network. Instead, they move storage resources away from the network and place them in their own high-performance network.
SANs can be accessed in the same way as a drive connected to a server. Types of storage area networks include converged, virtual, and unified SANs.
8. System network (also called SAN)
This term is relatively new in the last two decades. It is used to explain a relatively local network designed to provide a high-speed connection in server-to-server applications (clustered environments), storage networks (also called “SANs”), and processor-to-processor applications. Computers connected to a SAN operate as a single system at very high speeds.
9. Passive Optical Local Network (POLAN)
As an alternative to traditional switch-based Ethernet LANs, POLAN technology can be integrated into structured cabling solve problems related to the management of Ethernet protocols traditional and network applications such as POE(Power over Ethernet). Point-to-multipoint local network architecture, POLAN uses optical separators to divide an optical signal of one strand of optical fiber single mode in several signals for users and devices.
10. Private Enterprise Network ( EPN )
These types of networks are built and owned by companies that want to securely connect their different locations to share computing resources.
11. Virtual Private Network ( VPN )
By extending a private network over the Internet, a VPN allows its users to send and receive data as if their devices were connected to the private network, even if they are not. Through a virtual point-to-point connection, users can access a private network remotely.
If you have questions about what kind of network for your organization, or want to learn more about Avenger’s network solutions that improve availability, maintain security, and help improve user access avengering.com/en/
