What is a Computer Network? Different types of Computer Networks explained

What is a computer network? This is not a question you hear regularly, but it is important nonetheless. Without computer networks, the Internet would not be as efficient as it is today, so with that in mind, we decided to explain what a network is, to beginners, as well as different types of networks. Not only that, but this article will discuss the benefits of a network. There are no real drawbacks, so we won’t even go there.

What is a computer network

Well, a network is a group of connected computer systems for sharing resources and communicating. In addition, a network is also a collection of devices and computers linked together via transmission media and communication devices.

We will talk more about transmission media in another article, so keep your eyes open very soon.

Usefulness of a network

1. Speed ​​up communications
2. Share connected equipment
3. Disseminate data and information

1]Speed ​​up communications

Through networks, people can easily communicate with each other via email, messaging tools, chat rooms, social media, websites like this one, online video calling and much more. If a network goes down, then all the tools connected to it will no longer work.

2]Share connected equipment

If some hardware devices are connected to a network, it becomes fairly easy to share these devices with everyone who has access to the network. For example, database files or a printer are quite common on networks and are called network resources.

3]Disseminate data and information

Here’s the thing; if you are an authorized user, you should have no problem accessing data and information stored on the network. Among other things, a company like Microsoft would have a huge database of customer information, and it’s all open to employees with the appropriate rights.

Types of computer networks

1. Local area network (LAN)
2. Wireless LAN (WLAN)
3. WAN
4. Metropolitan network (MAN)
5. Personal Network (PAN)
6. Campus network (CAN)
7. Storage Area Network (SAN)

1]Local area network (LAN)

What we have here is a network that connects computers and devices in a small geographic area. For example, a LAN is usually located in a building. In fact, a building can have multiple local area networks connected to each other.

2]Wireless LAN (WLAN)

As the name suggests, this type of network is 100% wireless. It is based on a router connected to the Internet, which in turn provides wireless connectivity to all supported devices. This network is currently with you.

3]Metropolitan network (MAN)

OK, so a MAN consists in connecting local networks in a metropolitan area. Due to the distance, the connection of these networks to create a MAN is done via transmission technology, of which there are several. Coaxial and fiber are probably the most used over everything else because of their cost.

4]WAN

From what we can see, a WAN is similar to a MAN, the difference being the distance. In a wide area network, LANs or WANs that are geographically separate or connected together via wireless technology, a satellite in most cases.

5]Personal Network (PAN)

From the name alone, you should have an idea of ​​what this network involves. It is a network that uses cables and wireless technology to connect computers and devices in an individual workspace.

6]Campus network (CAN)

Usually found in universities or any business with a campus-like headquarters. The network is made possible by a series of local networks of neighboring buildings. It is larger than an ordinary LAN, but at the same time, smaller than a MAN.

7]Storage Area Network (SAN)

This one is super simple. Storage devices are connected together using broadband connections.

We hope this basic tutorial will help you get an idea.