Network Basics

March 22, 2017 5:26 pm

IT (Information Technology) can have a lot of information all at once and it can become pretty overwhelming. IT basics range from different points of technology such as computer or web development, Internet, anything that can relate to the computer, IT knows it. However, not many people are aware of the Network basics.

A computer network is a group of computers, specifically two or more, connected to one another through a wire or a cable, or as it is often used today, wirelessly. This allows computers to be able to access and share files easily. The bigger the network, the bigger chance you have to access a large number of computers and then give you the ability to share printers, storage space, and DVD drives among other things.

There are several different types of Networks that are classified on basis of scale. In other words, the area it covers determines on the type of network it is. The most popular ones are:

  • WAN – Wide Area Network is a collection of LAN(Local Access Network) networks and cover a big amount of geographical area. The Internet itself is known as a WAN. They differ from other networks because they’re not owned by one single organization or person. They also use different technology that allows communication over long distances, for example ATM.
  • LAN – As mentioned above, LAN stands for Local Access Networks. It is known as a short-distance network, usually connection computers that are close together the same area, for example in the same room or building.
  • CAN – Campus Area Network that is used amongst Universities and College campuses. Similar to WANs or LANs, they simply just have more restrictions.
  • MAN – A Metropolitan Area Network is commonly used in a metro area. They usually are more limited in scope than WANs.

Being familiar with the various types of networks, allows you to begin learning about the different models and network architecture available.

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