CLASSIFICATION OF NETWORKS - area based

THE VARIOUS TYPES OF COMPUTER NETWORKS

The networks can be classified into

1. LAN(local area network)
2. MAN(metropolitan area network)
3. WAN(wireless area network)

Local area network is in a limited area. it consists of group of computers and other devices that are connected by a communication link.

• The geographical area is only 10 to 100 km.
• Each user enjoys total computing facility.
• The data transfer rate is between 10 to 100 mbps.
• It is easy to manage since the area is small.
• Error rate is low since distance is less. Hence there is no problem of corrupted signals.

Metropolitan area network is bigger than LAN. But smaller than WAN.

• It can carry data and images at upto 200 mbps or faster .
• It can cover distance upto 75 km.
• It is connected within the same city to form a city network.

Wide area network is a single large network composed of many lans. Wans can be of two types a)public network. b)private network.

• The communication channels are provided by a third party.
• Communication channels are prone to various types of errors.
• A very wide geographical area is covered. Such as country, continent.

EASY GEOGRAPHICAL UNDERSTANDING OF 

LAN, MAN, AND WAN