A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers that can communicate with one another. Computer networks are created so that the computers in the network can share data and information. There are three main categories of computer networks, LAN, MAN, and WAN, depending on the operating region.
All three computer networks were created with information sharing between computers as their primary function. Yet, they differ in a variety of ways, which we will highlight in this post. Let’s start with some LAN, MAN, and WAN fundamentals.
What is MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)?
Metropolitan Area Network is represented by MAN. MAN is a significant variation of LAN that makes use of related technology. It does not have switching components but just uses one or two cords. It can be connected to the neighborhood cable TV network and serves the entire city.
A typical MAN links two or more computing equipment located in separate cities or the same location but apart. As comparison to a LAN, MAN covers a significantly bigger geographic area. However in contrast to a LAN, it is highly expensive. Data transmission in MAN occurs at a rate of Mbps (Mega Bytes per Second). The networks of telephone companies that offer cable TV subscribers high-speed digital subscriber lines are the most prevalent examples of MAN.
Characteristics of MAN
- The most common medium is cables and optical fibers.
- It primarily includes towns and cities within a 50 kilometer radius.
- Data rates sufficient for applications involving distributed computing.
Advantages of MAN
- The MAN network’s dual bus enables simultaneous data transmission in both directions.
- A city may be partially or completely covered by a MAN network.
- Using high-speed carriers like fiber optic cables, it provides quick communication.
- It offers increased access to WANs and strong support for networks of a large size.
Disadvantages of MAN
- It is challenging to protect the system from hackers in MAN networks.
- To build a MAN connection from one location to another, more cable is required.
What is LAN (Local Area Network)?
Local Area Network is referred to as LAN. A single building or a group of institutions can have a few kilometers worth of LANs. A network is referred to as a local area network when two or more computers are connected inside a small space, or an area with an interior diameter of no more than a few kilometers. A local area network links several computers together so they can exchange information, resources, tools, programs, etc. in a constrained geographic area, like a building.
Due to the fact that only a small number of computers can be connected to a single network, LAN has a very high data transmission rate. The gear needed to construct a LAN, such as network adapters, hubs, network cables, etc., is significantly less expensive.
The most common examples of LAN include private computer networks for home, office, schools, hospitals, colleges, etc.
Characteristics of LAN
- When compared to other WAN systems, LAN runs at a speed that is substantially greater.
- Since it is a private network, it is never governed by an outside regulatory authority.
- There are several different types of media access control techniques, including ethernet and token rings.
Advantages of LAN
- On the server computer’s single hard disk, data from every network user can be kept.
- A single internet connection can be shared by all LAN users thanks to local area networks.
- Over networked computers, data and messages can be sent with ease.
Data will be easier to handle in a single location, increasing data security. - Instead than buying the licensed program for each client in the network, you can use the same software over a network.
- Local area networks can be used to share computer resources including hard disks, DVD-ROMs, and printers. This drastically lowers the price of purchasing hardware.
Disadvantages of LAN
- In the event that the LAN administrator is unable to safeguard the central data repository, unauthorized users may have access to crucial information of the company.
- As a result of problems with software configuration and hardware failures, local area networks require ongoing LAN management.
- It does not provide good privacy because every LAN user’s personal data files are accessible to the LAN administrator.
- Due to pooled computer resources, LAN will reduce costs, however the initial cost of constructing Local Area Networks is rather significant.
What is WAN (Wide Area Network)?
Wide Area Network is referred to as WAN. WAN doesn’t have a distance cap. A WAN provides long-distance data, voice, picture, and video communication over a vast geographic region, such as a nation, continent, or even the entire planet.
A wide area network is essentially a connection of numerous LANs and MANs. A WAN links LANs together by using phone lines or radio waves. A WAN uses a high-speed, comparatively highly expensive technology for data communication.
Satellite links and public switched telephone networks are utilized as the communication mediums in WANs, which come in two varieties based on network structure: point-to-point WANs and switched WANs.
Due to longer distances and more computer equipment connected to a single network, a WAN’s data transmission rate is significantly lower than that of a LAN or MAN. WANs typically transmit data at a rate of a few kbps (kilobytes per second) to Mbps (Megabytes per second). The propagation delay is one of the main problems that WANs encounter. The Internet, a network of bank ATMs, and other common instances of WANs are given.
Characteristics of WAN
- Any firm can use WAN to create its own worldwide integrated network.
- All users will have access to the most recent files because the program files will be shared among everyone.
Advantages of WAN
- includes electronics such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, computers, gaming consoles, etc.
- You can reach a wider geographic area with the aid of WAN. As a result, offices located further apart can readily communicate.
- Client devices’ built-in radio transmitters and receivers are how WLAN connections operate.
Disadvantages of WAN
- Because of the extensive usage of many technologies and the wide distribution, there are more mistakes and problems.
- Because several wired and wireless technologies are involved, problem solving takes longer.
- The WAN network is difficult to maintain. Administrators of networks and experienced technicians are required.
- provides less security than other computer network kinds.
- Investment’s early setup costs are relatively costly.
Bottom Line
All of these computer network kinds are frequently used to link computers and other computing equipment so that they can share data and information. Another significant computer network that spans a big geographic area is the WAN (Wide Area Network). A computer network spanning an entire city, a college campus, or a small area is referred to as a metropolitan area network, or MAN. A WLAN, or wireless local area network, enables you to connect one or more devices together. Inside a small space, like a house, a building of offices, or a school, it uses wireless communication.
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