There are several types of computer networks that are part of the proper functioning of companies. These networks are used daily for everything from printing a document to remote connections to computing resources and company information.
Because they are so essential, it is necessary to know the types of computer networks and choose the right one for our company. Depending on the characteristics of the company, they may be very simple computer networks. On the other hand, they could be as complex as a global connection.
What are computer networks?
Before showing the types of computer networks, let us briefly clarify what these networks are. Computer networks are a system that seeks to facilitate communication using various electronic media.
These networks make it possible for multiple users to share the same device, facilitate file sharing, and allow remote access to computers and programs. On this occasion, we want to show which are the most important types of computer networks, and what is the objective of each one.
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The most important types of computer networks.
Although there are several types of computer networks, the most important and used in companies are the following.
– Local Area Network – (LAN).
It is almost certain that you have heard of this network at some point. It is about the local area network in which interconnected work spaces are made up so that it is possible to share information and devices.
However, it is a network that covers a limited physical space, such as an office or even a group of buildings. However, unlike other types of computer networks, it has a wide range of communication, extremely fast data transfer, and the ability to connect multiple devices.
In order for you to monitor and maintain the local area network (LAN), various tools and protocols can be used to manage networks.
– Personal Area Network – (PAN)
Of the types of computer networks, this is the most basic of all. The famous PAN network is personal, since it is composed only of a wireless modem, one or two computers, printers, phones, and some other device connected within a small range of distance.
Usually, these personal area networks are perfect for residences, small offices and are managed from a single device. In the same way, the PAN network works through the Internet, without the need for cabling.
– Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).
The network called Metropolitan Area Network, is a broadband telecommunications network, which seeks to carry out the communication of various LAN networks in a nearby geographical space.
Generally, it is used in each of the headquarters of a company, which are grouped in a metropolitan area network.
To make this possible, it is necessary to use high-capacity routers based on fiberglass, which provide power, speed, and performance greater than that of the Internet.
It is one of the types of computer networks with the highest transmission speed between 2 junction points that are distant, with communication very similar to that of a LAN.
– Wide Area Network – (WAN)
The WAN network is a type of network that makes it possible to connect various devices located at long distances. In this way, it is possible to communicate remotely regardless of the distance between the users.
The most outstanding example of the WAN wide area network is the Internet itself, which can connect millions of devices in all parts of the planet. For this reason, it is one of the most widely used types of computer networks in the world. Generally, the management of this computer network is public.
Due to their characteristics, these wide area networks extend to geographical areas as extensive as countries or continents. Therefore, within this network there are several types of networks. These local networks and individual terminals are part of the WAN. The number of local and individual networks is unlimited.
– Storage Area Network – (SAN)
It is one of the most efficient and high performing types of computer networks. If what you need is great performance and high speed, the best option will always be the SAN Network.
This type of network is made up of hosts, storage devices, and switches that are interconnected using various protocols. It is a type of almost total availability network. It is capable of storing data in blocks and facilitating resource allocation efficiently.
– Virtual Private Networks – (VPN)
One of the most used types of computer networks to establish secure connections to any other network is the VPN. You can establish secure connections using public networks such as the Internet.
Usually, many companies make use of the virtual private network for remote access to the company’s local network. In this way, employees will be able to work anywhere on the planet. They will be able to use the technological resources of the company as if they were local.
Thanks to strong security, VPN virtual private network is widely used. Its greatest use is to prevent third parties from tracking local activities and company data. Therefore, it is one of the most important types of computer networks. This considering that the connections are made through the Internet.
If you want more information and advice on the types of computer networks, and how to choose the most suitable one for you, you can contact us and we will give you all the information you need.
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