Introduction to Computer

Networks
Learning Objectives

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Classification
• Types of network (LAN, PAN, MAN, WAN)
• Benefits and advantages
Introduction

Computer Network is a set of computers connected to each other that facilitates the computer to communicate
with another computer and share their data, resources, and applications.
.
A computer network categorized by their size is mainly of four types:

• LAN(Local Area
Network)
• PAN(Personal Area
Network)
• MAN(Metropolitan
Area Network)
• WAN(Wide Area
Network)
Types of Computer Network: LAN, MAN and WAN

Types of computer networks

mainly based on their size:

Metropolitan Area
Local Area Network Wide Area Network
Network
(LAN) (WAN)
(MAN)
LAN

• LAN is a set of computers connected to each

other in a small area such as office, building, etc.
• LAN is used for connecting two or more PC
through a communication medium such as
coaxial cable, twisted pair, etc.
• It is less expensive as it is built with low-cost
hardware such as network adapters, hubs, and
ethernet cables.
• The data is transferred at an exceptionally faster
rate in LAN.
• LAN gives higher security.
PAN

• PAN is a network arranged within an individual

person within a range of 10 meters.
• PAN is used for connecting the computer devices
of personal use and thus the term defined as
Personal Area Network.
• Thomas Zimmerman brought the idea of the
Personal Area Network for the first time.
• PAN covers an area of 30 feet.
• Personal computer devices that are used to
develop the personal area network are the
mobile phones, laptop, media player and play
stations.
Personal Area Network

Wireless Personal Area Network: Wireless PAN is a

low range network developed by simply using
wireless technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth.

Wired Personal Area Network: Wired Personal Area

Network is developed by using the USB.
MAN

MAN covers a larger geographic area by

cross connecting a different LAN to form a
larger network.
Government bodies use Metropolitan Area
Network to connect to the citizens and
private industries.
In Metropolitan Area Network, various
LANs are connected to each other through
a telephone exchange line.
The most widely used protocols in
Metropolitan Area Network are RS-232,
ATM, ISDN, Frame Relay, OC-3, ADSL, etc.
MAN has a higher range than LAN
WAN

A Wide Area Network is not limited to a

single location, but it spans over the world
through a telephone line, fibre optic cable
or satellite links.
The internet is one of the biggest example
for WAN in the world.
A Wide Area Network is widely used in the
field of Government, Business, and
Education.
Types of Computer Network: LAN, MAN and WAN

Type Pros and cons

WAN Pros: privacy, increased bandwidth, area

Cons: security, expensive, longer issue resolution time

LAN/MAN Pros: cheaper and faster

Cons: higher cost or expense, entire network fails in case of failure
Summary

In this session, we have discussed about:

• Classification
• Types of network (LAN, PAN, MAN, WAN)
• Benefits and advantages
Q&A