Definition
A network is a system in which multiple computers are interconnected to share resources and communicate with each other. There are mainly two types of networks based on the geographical spread: Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN).
Types of Networks:
Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) links computers within a limited area such as a single building or a cluster of adjacent buildings. LANs are typically used to connect personal computers and workstations in company offices, educational institutions, or residential buildings to share resources like printers or internet access.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A Wide Area Network (WAN) spans a larger geographic area, often a country or continent. WANs are often established through leased telecommunication lines and may use varied technologies to ensure connectivity and data transfer over long distances. The Internet is the most well-known example of a WAN.
Examples
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Office Network: An office LAN connects several computers, printers, and servers within an office building to facilitate document sharing and communication via email and instant messaging.
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University Network: A university may use LANs to connect all computers in each department and then link these LANs to a main university server using WAN.
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Home Network: A typical home network connects personal devices within a household, such as computers, tablets, printers, and gaming consoles, over a LAN.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary purpose of a network?
The primary purpose of a network is to enable sharing of data, communication between users, and shared access to hardware resources like printers and storage devices.
Can a network be both LAN and WAN?
Yes, a network can have both LAN and WAN components, where local segments (LANs) are connected over vast distances using WAN protocols.
What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN?
A LAN covers a smaller geographic area such as a building, supporting high-speed information exchange. A WAN, conversely, covers broader geographic areas, requiring more sophisticated and slower communication methods due to distance.
How do networks ensure data security?
Networks often use various security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, authentication, and access control devices to protect data and manage user permissions.
Are all WANs considered part of the Internet?
No, not all WANs entail public internet connections. Many WANs are private and used exclusively by specific organizations.
Related Terms
Router
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks, creating an overlay internetwork.
Switch
A switch is a networking device that connects devices within a LAN and uses MAC addresses to forward data to the right destination.
Firewall
A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
Protocol
A protocol is a set of rules and standards for data transfer between network devices. Examples include TCP/IP and HTTP.
Online Resources
- Cisco - Networking Basics
- Computer Networking on Wikipedia
- Khan Academy - Introduction to Networking
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach” by James Kurose and Keith Ross.
- “Networking All-in-One for Dummies” by Doug Lowe.
- “Data Communications and Networking” by Behrouz A. Forouzan.
Fundamentals of Networks: Computer Science Basics Quiz
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