What Is a Computer Network | Definition,Types and Uses
A computer network is essentially a collection of computers linked together for the aim of sharing assets. It is inconceivable to picture our existence without networking technologies in this age of modern science. In today’s world, networking systems are used in practically every part of our life.
Therefore, we will discuss the use of computer networks and the fundamentals of networking today.
What Is a Computer Network?
Network in computer science is a technique for connecting two or more computers so they share data, provide technical support, and communicate, usually for business purposes.
Different computer systems can be linked with the help of the Internet. A new arena has opened up for global development thanks to networking technology.
Types of Computer Network
Computing networks come in a variety of forms. Listed below are descriptions of the different types of computer networks.
Local Area Network (LAN)
The LAN is the most common type of network. A local area network (LAN) is an interconnected computer network that uses a common communication route and communicates only locally. A local area network (LAN) is a system that connects two or more computers to a server. Ethernet and wireless are two technologies that are critical to this network’s success.
There are many examples of LANs: networking at home, schools, libraries, college labs, and offices.
Campus Area Network (CAN)
CAN is a smaller network than a LAN. Typically, they are utilized for computer networking in schools or colleges. School, college, and constructing computer networks are all examples of CANs. They are limited to a specific geographic area, such as a campus.
CANs can be used to connect schools, colleges, and buildings, for example.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
The PAN is the most basic sort of computer network. This network is limited to a single user, and its communication is limited to that individual’s work environment exclusively. PAN allows a person to communicate with the gadget at a distance of up to 10 meters.
PANs include computers, laptops, phones, tablets, printers, PDAs, and other electronic devices.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A wide-area network (WAN) is a computer network that uses shared communication channels to connect computers over vast distances. There are numerous locations where it can be found, not just one. A wide area network (WAN) is also known as a collection of interconnected local area networks.
One of the most common examples of WAN is the Internet.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
The size of a local area network is smaller than that of a metropolitan area network. A computer network that connects computers throughout a city, municipality, or metropolitan area using a shared communication route.
MAN can take many forms, including clusters of small villages, enormous towns, many structures, and so on.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Wi-Fi networks are a type of local area network that uses wireless technology. Devices communicate wirelessly over this network rather than over physical cables.
Wi-Fi is most commonly used as an example of WLAN.
System Area Network (SAN)
The System Area network is a network that connects numerous high-performance computers. The network provides high-bandwidth connection-oriented services. To put it another way, it’s a special kind of local area network designed to handle massive amounts of data. This network is suitable for high-performance applications.
Storage Area Network (SAN)
In a high-speed network, this sort of network connects a large number of servers and storage devices. This network does not require a LAN or a WAN. Storage area networks (SANs) relocate storage resources away from the network and onto their high-performance networks. The SAN allows users to store data on a block-by-block basis.
A SAN presents the example of a network of disks accessed by a network of servers.
Enterprise Private Network (EPN)
In a virtual world, an EPN is a computer network that is used for connecting users over the internet to share resources from different locations.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
You can use a VPN to extend a private network over the internet and give the impression of being on one even if you aren’t. Virtual point-to-point connections allow users to connect to private networks from afar. Your network connection is shielded from harmful sources when you use a VPN.
Passive Optical Local Area Network (POLAN)
In the case of computer networks, POLANs are alternatives to LANs. By splitting an optical signal, POLAN distributes users and devices from single-mode fibers to multiple signals. POPLAN stands for point-to-multipoint local area network.
How does Computer Network Work?
Computer networks use cables, fiber optics, or wireless communications to technology fits such as computers, routers, and switches. These connections facilitate communication and resource sharing between devices in a network. Protocols, which specify how communication is sent and received, organize a network. This is how a network works.
Uses of Computer Network
The basics of computer networks and their uses have become increasingly important in the age of science and technology because they are vital to network systems. Listed below is a selection of ways computer networks are used.
- Computer networks make it easy to share printers and other assets.
- It enables network participants to share pricey software and databases.
- Computer networks can connect two computers quickly and easily.
- Users can share data and information over a network with a computer network.
Final Note
Communications between computers are greatly enhanced by computer networks. We strive to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of computer network basics and their applications. Our goal is for you to have a clear understanding of computer networks after reading our article.
