Describe the different types of networks.

There are four types of computer networks:

1. LAN (Local Area Network) — LAN is used when two or more computers or peripheral devices are connected within a small area, like a room, office building, or a campus. The maximum range of LAN can be 10 Kilometers. The number of computers in a LAN varies from 2 to 1000. The hardware as well as software resources are shared through LAN.
2. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) — MAN is much larger than a LAN setup and is spread across a city. The most common example of a MAN type network is Cable Television Network. The main purpose of a MAN is to share hardware and software resources. The maximum range of MAN can be 50 Km.
3. WAN (Wide Area Network) — WAN is used when we have two or more computers located at far away places, linked by communication facilities, like telecommunication or satellite signals. The most common example of a WAN network is the Internet which is generally used in houses, schools, banks and private and public sector. The main characteristic of a WAN is that it requires a public telecommunication media to transfer data.
4. PAN (Personal Area Network) — PAN is mainly created for an individual person. It consists of a desktop/laptop computer, a mobile phone, and/or a handheld computing device, such as a PDA or a Smartphone. We can use these networks to transfer files including e-mail, calendar appointments, digital photos, and music. Personal area networks generally cover a range of less than 10 meters.