Importance of Types of Networks: LAN, MAN, and WAN | Simplilearn

Computer Networks are often differentiated based on the connection mode, like wired or wireless. They are categorized into different types depending on the requirement of the network channel. 

The network established is used to connect multiple devices to share software and hardware resources and tools.

In this article on ‘Types of Networks,’ we will look into different types of networks and some of their important features.

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What Is a Computer Network?

A computer network is a connection between two or more network devices, like computers, routers, and switches, to share network resources.

The establishment of a computer network depends on the requirements of the communication channel, i.e., the network can be wired or wireless.

Next, let’s look into the types of networks available.

Types of Networks

According to the communication requirements, multiple types of network connections are available. The most basic type of network classification depends on the network’s geographical coverage.

Below mentioned are different types of networks:

• PAN (Personal Area Network)
• LAN (Local Area Network)
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
• WAN (Wide Area Network)

Let’s look into each of the network types in detail.

What Is Local Area Network (LAN)?

The Local Area Network (LAN) is designed to connect multiple network devices and systems within a limited geographical distance. The devices are connected using multiple protocols for properly and efficiently exchanging data and services. 

Attributes of LAN Network:

• The data transmit speed in the LAN network is relatively higher than the other network types, MAN and WAN.
• LAN uses private network addresses for network connectivity for data and service exchange, and it uses cable for network connection, decreasing error and maintaining data security.

Advantages and Disadvantages of LAN Network

Advantages 

Disadvantages

Transmission of data and services is relatively higher than other network connections.

Need constant administration of experienced engineers for functioning.

The Network Server acts as a central unit for the whole network. 

Probability of leak of sensitive data by LAN administration.

Now let’s move on to the next network type, MAN Network.

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What Is Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?

The Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network type that covers the network connection of an entire city or connection of a small area. The area covered by the network is connected using a wired network, like data cables.

Attributes of MAN Network:

• Network covers an entire town area or a portion of a city.
• Data transmission speed is relatively high due to the installation of optical cables and wired connections.

Advantages and Disadvantages of MAN Network:

Advantages 

Disadvantages

Provides Full-Duplex data transmission in the network channel for devices. 

High probability of attack from hackers and cybercriminals due to large networks.

The network connection area covers an entire city or some parts using the optic cables.

The need for good quality hardware and the installation cost is very high.

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What Is Wide Area Network (WAN)?

The Wide Area Network (WAN) is designed to connect devices over large distances like states or between countries. The connection is wireless in most cases and uses radio towers for communication.

The WAN network can be made up of multiple LAN and MAN networks.

Attributes of WAN Network:

• The speed of the WAN data transfer is lower than in comparison to LAN and MAN networks due to the large distance covered.
• The WAN network uses a satellite medium to transmit data between multiple locations and network towers.

Advantages and Disadvantages of WAN Network:

Advantages

Disadvantages

This network covers a high geographical area and is used for large-distance connections.

High cost to set up the network and the Support of experienced technicians is needed to maintain the network.

They also use radio towers and connect channels for users.

It is difficult to prevent hacking and debug a large network.

With this, we have reached the end of this article on ‘Types of Networks,’ and we can conclude our findings about the topics covered in the article.

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Conclusion

In this article on ‘Types of Networks,’ we looked into the types of computer networks. Also, we learned some information about the features of each network, along with the advantages and disadvantages of the networks.

To further gain information on the topic of computer networks and apply them practically to design communication channels, you can refer to Simplilearn’s Cyber Security Expert course. With the completion of this professional course, you’ll be proficient with terms related to computer networks.

If you have any questions about this article on ‘Types of Networks.’ Feel free to mention them in the comment section at the bottom of this page. Our expert team will help you solve your queries at the earliest.