Definition and Types of Computer Networks

-First, there is a need to understand that Computer Network goes beyond MTN and Airtel, which, in the actual sense, are internet service providers, but I will talk more about them later in this documentation.

-When you next hear the term ” computer network, you should know that a Computer network simply has to do with a set of devices connected through links. It is a group of interconnected devices(computers, servers, etc) that communicate and share data, applications, and resources over wired or wireless connections.

-Throwing more light, a Computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that communicate and share resources through a set of communication protocols.

-When you hear NODE when talking about computer networks, it refers to any device capable of sending or receiving data. The links connecting the nodes are known as communication channels.

-There are four main types of computer networks, which include:

• Personal Area Network (Wired PAN & Wireless PAN)
• Local Area Network
• Metropolitan Area Network
• Wide Area Network

These types go to show that computer networks are categorized into different types based on their size, range, and purpose. Each type is designed to meet specific communication needs, from personal use to large-scale use. So now I will carefully explain the types, and you too can see which one you use daily at home and in your workplace.

1. PERSONAL AREA NETWORK(PAN): A personal area network, from the name, is a network arranged for personal use and is typically within a range of 10 metres. This network is primarily used for connecting your devices, like a phone, laptop, etc. Personal Area Networks are of two types: wireless(connecting your phone to your AirPods using Bluetooth) and Wired(connecting your laptop to your printer using a cable). From this explanation, you can see that you make use of this daily.
   
2. LOCAL AREA NETWORK(LAN): This is a group of computers and devices connected in a small area, such as buildings or offices. They connect two or more personal computers through a communication medium. It allows users to share resources and internet connections quickly and efficiently. They are typically high-speed and can be wired (using Ethernet cables) or wireless (using Wi-Fi).
   
3. METROPOLITAN AREA NETWORK(MAN): This is the kind of network that covers a larger geographical area by interconnecting different Local Area Networks to form a larger network within a city or campus. It covers a wider area than a Local Area network but is still smaller than a Wide Area network, which we will be discussing. They are used by large companies, universities and institutions to link various buildings or departments across a city for efficient data sharing and communication.
4. WIDE AREA NETWORK(WAN): This is where the internet service providers like MTN, Glo and others fall. A wide area network is the kind that extends over a large geographical area, such as a state or a country. It connects multiple smaller networks, allowing users in different locations to communicate and share resources. It relies on infrastructure provided by Internet Service Providers (Glo, MTN, Airtel, Etisalat), and they are essential for global communication and even accessing cloud services. A good example is the Internet.
   N/B

   We have other types of networks that you must have come across, but they are not among the main types. They include:

   • Campus Area Network

   This is larger than a local area network but smaller than a metropolitan area network. It is typically used in universities, schools and corporate campuses. It is made to connect multiple buildings within a limited area, combining elements of local area networks and wide area networks.

   • Storage Area Network

   This is set up specially for storing and accessing large amounts of data. It consists of dedicated storage and operates at high speed. Businesses use it for data backup and recovery.

   • Virtual Private Network

   This creates a secure, encrypted connection over a public network like the internet. It is used to ensure privacy and protect data. It is commonly used when you want remote access to a private network.

   • Wireless Local Area Network

   This is a large area network commonly found in homes, cafes and offices that uses wireless communication like wifi instead of cables. It provides flexibility and mobility.