What is LAN WAN and MAN in computer network

Networks are very important in our lives. Be it a social network or a computer network, it is essential. These networks depend upon the speed at which the internet is provided. All these three networks, i.e., LAN, MAN, and WAN, are used for providing internet services to people. Let us discuss about them in detail.

LAN (Local Area Network) is defined as a computer network that is responsible for connecting local areas like schools, residents, universities, etc. The main function of the local area networks is to link the computers, thereby providing access to the printers, photocopies, and other services. LAN has client-server architecture. The network size of LAN less than 5 Kms.

Characteristics of LAN 

• It is a network owned by a private owner. 
• Personal computers, printers, etc., are connected through LAN. 
• LANs are very easy to design and troubleshoot. 
• A central database is used to connect the LAN networks. 
• The data transfer rate of LAN is 10 Gbits/s. 
• LANs are limited to local areas.

A MAN, also called the Metropolitan Area Network, is defined as the computer network that joins the metropolitan areas. MAN works either through wires/ cables or modem. Telephone company network is a common example of MAN as they provide high-speed DSL line to the consumers. The main characteristic of MAN is that it is the interconnection between several links/ networks in a metropolitan area. Point-to-point connections are used in MAN. The network size of MAN ranges from 5-50 Kms.

Characteristics of MAN 

• MAN is a larger network than LAN. 
• The geographical area covered is larger than LAN. 
• MAN generally covers a city. 
• The television network is the prime example of MAN. 
• Two or more computers are connected through this network.

A WAN, also called the Wide Area Network, is defined as a telecommunications network that extends over a large area. The primary purpose of WAN is computer networking. The networks are linked to communicate with one another. WAN is not associated with a particular location. It helps in communication and sharing the required information among the connections. WAN is the largest network as compared to MAN and LAN. A WAN may cover a country, continent, etc. Examples of WAN include broadband services, 3G or 4G connections, etc.Some of the advantages of WAN are that it covers a larger geographical area.The network size of WAN more than 50 Kms.

Characteristics of WAN 

• The largest area, like a country, is covered by WAN. 
• Different metropolitan countries are linked through the telecommunications network. 
• WAN may be interconnected in and around the world. 
• The connection between the networks is established through telephone lines or satellites.

PAN(Personal Area Network) 

Personal Area Network is a network arranged within an individual person, typically within a range of 10 meters. Personal Area Network is used for connecting the computer devices of personal use is known as Personal Area Network. Thomas Zimmerman was the first research scientist to bring the idea of the Personal Area Network. Personal Area Network covers an area of 30 feet.

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