Computer Networking Basics

Computer Network

• A computer network is a set of two or more computers linked together to communicate, exchange, share, or distribute data, files, and resources.
• Networks can be connected via wired cables or wireless networks like Wi-Fi.

LAN (Local Area Network)

• A LAN is a group of devices connected over a short distance, such as an office or home.
• Ethernet LAN is a commonly used LAN.
• LANs allow users to transfer or share data, files, and resources.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

• A WAN is a network type that connects computers over a wide geographical area, such as a country or continent.
• WAN includes several LANs, MANs, and CANs.
• The Internet is an example of a WAN, connecting billions of computers globally.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

• A VPN is a secure tool that encrypts point-to-point Internet connection and hides the user's IP address and virtual location.
• VPNs boost user's online privacy by making their identity and data inaccessible to hackers.

SAN (Storage Area Network)

• A SAN is a specialized high-speed network that stores and provides access to block-level storage.
• SAN is a dedicated shared network used for cloud data storage that appears and works like a storage drive.
• SAN consists of various switches, servers, and disk arrays.
• One of the advantages of SAN is that it is fault-tolerant, meaning data can still be accessed if any switch or server goes down.

PAN (Personal Area Network)

• A PAN is a type of network used personally and usually serves one person.
• PAN connects devices like smartphones, laptops, or desktops to sync content and share small files.
• Devices connect via wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Infrared.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

• A MAN is a computer network that connects computers within a metropolitan area, which could be a single large city or multiple cities and towns.
• MAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.

CAN (Campus Area Network)

• A CAN is a closed corporate communication network that may contain a private or public part.
• CANs are widely used in colleges, academies, and corporate sites.
• A CAN is a network designed to meet the needs of an extensive area like a university, corporate campus, or hospital complex.
• CAN connects multiple buildings, providing seamless internet and intranet access across a more extensive area than a traditional LAN.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

• A WLAN is similar to a LAN with the difference that it uses wireless communication between devices instead of wired connections.
• WLAN typically involves a Wi-Fi router or wireless access point for devices.

Network Management

• Networks are used to assist in management tasks associated with their own operation and maintenance.
• Using networks results in increased efficiency and a resultant reduction in maintenance costs.

Learn about computer networks, including LAN (Local Area Network), Ethernet LAN, and connecting devices such as switches and printers over short distances. Understand the purpose of networks in communicating, sharing data, files, and resources.