NETWORKING;
is the backbone of modern communication, enabling devices connect and share information efficiently. understanding the fundamental basis of networking is important for grasping the principals of Networks functionality and it's securities.
these provides the basic foundation to comprehend networks functions and essential components.
Network Components;
Networks are composed of various elements that work together to facilitate communication and data transfer.
Devices:
These include computers, smartphones, servers, and networking hardware such as routers, switches, and hubs.
Media:
The physical pathways through which data travels. This can be wired (Ethernet cables, fibre optics) or wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
Protocols:
Sets of rules that dictate how data is transmitted and received. Common protocols include TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP and SSH.
Network Interface Cards (NICs):
Hardware components that connect devices to the network.
Software:
Network operating systems and management software that control network functions and security.
TYPES of NETWORKS
Here are 11 types of networks:
1. Local area network (LAN)
A local area network, or LAN, is the most common network type. It allows users to connect within a short distance in a common area. Once they connect, users have access to the same resources. For example, you might use a LAN when you connect your laptop to the internet at your home and print a document from a printer on the same network.
2. Personal area network (PAN)
A personal area network, or PAN, is a small-scale network that revolves around one person or device. A PAN connects just a few devices in a small localized area. Rather than including many devices, PANs usually operate from one or two main devices. For example, if you use the Bluetooth functionality on your smartphone to share a photo with a nearby device, you're using a PAN.
3. Wireless local area network (WLAN)
A wireless local area network, or WLAN, operates similarly to a LAN because it transmits data within a small area. It's rarely necessary to have a wired connection for devices that use a WLAN. While typically less secure and slightly weaker than other networks, a WLAN provides users with the flexibility to use their devices in various locations. For example, a user might connect a baby monitor to a WLAN to ensure the device remains operational wherever their child sleeps.
4. Campus area network (CAN)
A campus area network, or CAN, is a network used in educational environments such as universities or school districts. While each department in a school might use its own LAN, all the school's LANs could connect through a CAN. Campus area networks combine several independent networks into one cohesive unit. For example, the English and engineering departments at a university might connect through a CAN to communicate with each other directly.
5. Metropolitan area network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network, or a MAN, is a medium-sized network that's larger than a CAN. While a MAN is a costly network, it provides efficient connectivity between devices across a wide geographical range. For example, a city government might operate with a MAN if it has offices across the entire metropolitan area.
6. Wide area network (WAN)
A wide area network, or a WAN, is an extensive network that's not confined to geographical space. Corporations and international companies may use WANs to provide a common network with far-reaching connectivity. For example, remote workers who use the internet to access information from their company make use of a WAN.
7. Storage area network (SAN)
A storage area network, or a SAN, is a network that teams use to store mass amounts of sensitive data. It provides a way to centralize data on a non-localized network that differs from the main operating one. One example of a SAN is if your team stores customer information on a separate network to maintain the high speeds of your main network.
8. Passive optical local area network (POLAN)
A passive optical local area network, or a POLAN, is a low-cost network that can link various locations to one central network. POLANs have the power to connect multiple entities to one hub of information. For example, if a school district's headquarters needs to connect with each school in its district, it may implement a POLAN.
9. Enterprise private network (EPN)
An enterprise private network, or an EPN, is an exclusive network that businesses build and operate to share company resources at high speeds. EPNs are typically unique to a specific company, which ensures the connection is secure. For example, a high-security technology company might use an EPN to reduce the risk of data breaches.
10. Virtual private network (VPN)
A virtual private network, or VPN, is a private network that's available through the internet. This type of network functions similarly to an EPN because it provides a secure, private connection. VPNs typically don't require the same infrastructure as EPNs. Both the general public and companies can use VPNs to ensure privacy and security.
11. System-area network (SAN)
A system area network, or a SAN, is a broad local network that provides connections in clusters. The various devices connected to a SAN operate as a single system. SANs are newly developing networks that operate at high speeds.
