Lesson three
Networks Types, its application and example
Networks Types: LANs, MANs, WANs, WWANs, VLANs, Internet, Intranet, Extranet and Internetworking.
i. LAN (Local Area Network): Connects devices in a limited area like a home, school, or office
building.
ii. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a larger geographic area, such as a city.
iii. WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans a large geographic area, often a country or continent.
iv. WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network): A wireless WAN, often using cellular technology.
v. VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network): Creates segmented networks within a single physical LAN
for better management and security.
vi. Internet: A global network connecting millions of private, public, academic, business, and
government networks.
vii. Intranet: A private network accessible only to an organization's staff.
viii. Extranet: An extension of an intranet that allows controlled access to outsiders, such as partners
or clients.
ix. Internetworking: Connecting multiple distinct networks to form a larger network, enabling
them to communicate.
Types of Computer Networks
1. Local Area Network (LAN): - Description: A LAN is a network that covers a small geographical
area, such as a single building, office, or home. It connects devices like computers, printers, and
servers within this confined area.
Example: A network within an office building where employees share resources like printers and file
servers.
Application: Used in businesses and schools to facilitate resource sharing, collaboration, and internal
communication.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN): - Description: A WAN covers a large geographical area, often
connecting multiple smaller networks such as LANs. It can span cities, countries, or even
continents.
