Computer Network and its Types and Advantages

A Computer network consist of two or more computer that are connected together to share information and resources. the resources may include printers, hard disks, scanners or programs etc.

The Computer in the network are connected together in the network through communication media. The Communication media can be a physical cable or a wireless connection. The Computer in the network can be in the same room, building or at different places.

Types of Computer Networks

Different Types of computer networks are;

LAN : Local area Network
WAN : Wide Area Network
MAN : Metropolitan Area Network
PAN : Personal Area Network

LAN (Local Area Network)

LAN Stands for local Area Network. It is the most common type of network. it covers a small area. it usually connects the computer and other devices within one office or a building or group of buildings.

Each computer or device in the network is called a node. The nodes are usually connected through wires. A LAN that uses no physical wire is called wireless LAN.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

WAN stands for wide area network. This type of network covers a large area. it connects computer and other devices in different cities and countries. WAN usually consists of several LAN s connected together. WAN is expensive than LAN. WAN is not as fast LAN. The transmission rate of WAN is typically 56 kbps to 50 Mbps.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

MAN stands for Metropolitan Area Network. This type of network cover an area of city. MAN is large than LAN but smaller than WAN. it is usually used to connect two or more LAN s in a city or town.

PAN (Personal area network )

PAN stands for personal area network. it is a network that connects personal devices using wired and wireless technology. the device are typically located within range of about 30 feet. the device may include portable computer, smart phones, digital cameras, portable digital media player and printers etc.

Advantages of Computer Network

Following are some important benefits of computer networks.

Easy Communication

People can communicate easily and efficiently with one another using computer networks. They can talk, chat and send emails etc.

Data and information sharing

Data and information sharing can be shared among different users. the internet is a good example of sharing information. the information can be shared among the people all over the world using the internet.

Hardware Sharing

Network allow the users to share computer hardware. for example, all computer in a network can access the same printer attached to the network. it helps in reducing the costs.

Internet Access Sharing

A computer network also allows the sharing of an internet connection. A high speed connection can be shared among many users over the network.

Entertainment

The user can enjoy games and other entertainment facilities on the network. Many websites on the internet provide entertainment such as online games and movies etc. the multi player games can also be played over the internet or local area network.

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Computer Network and its Types and Advantages