Network Types
NETWORK TYPES
Esteban Solorzano-Vivar
Wilmington University
WIS.200.B2N01.SP2013
March 13, 2013
Introduction
In today’s world, computers have had a quite impressive evolution. Computers are not only needed to do homework, but they have also become essential tools for work, social life, and everyday tasks. With the help of technology, computers now allow us to share information (emails, documents, etc.), resources and software applications in just seconds. This sharing often occurs through a network, which has become a fundamental aspect of technology today. The purpose of this paper is to explain how computers are linked with each other and the type of technology needed to build a network.
What is a network?
A network is a set of various computers that have an interconnection in order to share hardware, software, data, and resources using a communication medium between them (ComputerNotes). A network connects computers by means of cabling systems, specialized software, and devices that manage data traffic.
Types of Networks
The four main types of networks are: Local Area Networks (LANs), Campus Area Networks (CANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), and Wide Area Networks (WANs). The use of each type of network is chosen according to the geographic space and cost of implementation.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network is often a network confined to one location or building. These networks share various components from desktop PCs, printers and servers, to mainframes and other devices (InetDaemon.com, 2012). There are basic requirements in order to setup a Local Area Network: Servers, Client Computers, the Network Interface Card, Routers <<using Ethernet cables or Wireless>>, and a Network Operating System (Fundamental Microcomputer Information Technology). Local Area Networks can be distinguished from other networks because of their short distance. The total coverage may be from 1 km to 10 kms. The data transmission speed of
Esteban Solorzano-Vivar
Wilmington University
WIS.200.B2N01.SP2013
March 13, 2013
Introduction
In today’s world, computers have had a quite impressive evolution. Computers are not only needed to do homework, but they have also become essential tools for work, social life, and everyday tasks. With the help of technology, computers now allow us to share information (emails, documents, etc.), resources and software applications in just seconds. This sharing often occurs through a network, which has become a fundamental aspect of technology today. The purpose of this paper is to explain how computers are linked with each other and the type of technology needed to build a network.
What is a network?
A network is a set of various computers that have an interconnection in order to share hardware, software, data, and resources using a communication medium between them (ComputerNotes). A network connects computers by means of cabling systems, specialized software, and devices that manage data traffic.
Types of Networks
The four main types of networks are: Local Area Networks (LANs), Campus Area Networks (CANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), and Wide Area Networks (WANs). The use of each type of network is chosen according to the geographic space and cost of implementation.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network is often a network confined to one location or building. These networks share various components from desktop PCs, printers and servers, to mainframes and other devices (InetDaemon.com, 2012). There are basic requirements in order to setup a Local Area Network: Servers, Client Computers, the Network Interface Card, Routers <<using Ethernet cables or Wireless>>, and a Network Operating System (Fundamental Microcomputer Information Technology). Local Area Networks can be distinguished from other networks because of their short distance. The total coverage may be from 1 km to 10 kms. The data transmission speed of
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