Routers analyze data within the packets to determine the best way for the information to reach its ultimate destination. Routers: A router is a physical or virtual device that sends information contained in data packets between networks. A node is essentially any network device that can recognize, process, and transmit information to any other network node. A few examples of nodes include computers, printers, modems, bridges, and switches. Each node requires you to provide some form of identification to receive access, like an IP address. Nodes: A node is a connection point inside a network that can receive, send, create, or store data.
When one device sends data to another, the data includes a ‘header’ that includes the IP address of the sending device and the IP address of the destination device. Each IP address identifies the device’s host network and the location of the device on the host network. IP address: An IP address is a unique number assigned to every device connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. The following are some common terms to know when discussing computer networking: A VPN establishes an encrypted channel that keeps a user’s identity and access credentials, as well as any data transferred, inaccessible to hackers. VPN (virtual private network): A VPN is a secure, point-to-point connection between two network end points (see ‘Nodes’ below). CANs serve sites such as colleges, universities, and business campuses. A CAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN. (For more information on how a SAN works with block storage, see Block Storage: A Complete Guide.)ĬAN (campus area network): A CAN is also known as a corporate area network. SAN (storage area network): A SAN is a specialized network that provides access to block-level storage-shared network or cloud storage that, to the user, looks and works like a storage drive that’s physically attached to a computer. For example, if you have an iPhone and a Mac, it’s very likely you’ve set up a PAN that shares and syncs content-text messages, emails, photos, and more-across both devices. PAN (personal area network): A PAN serves one person. Cities and government entities typically own and manage MANs. MAN (metropolitan area network): MANs are typically larger than LANs but smaller than WANs. You will typically see collective or distributed ownership models for WAN management. The internet is the largest WAN, connecting billions of computers worldwide. WAN (wide area network): As the name implies, a WAN connects computers over a wide area, such as from region to region or even continent to continent. WLAN (wireless local area network): A WLAN is just like a LAN but connections between devices on the network are made wirelessly. Typically, LANs are privately owned and managed. For example, a LAN may connect all the computers in an office building, school, or hospital. LAN (local area network): A LAN connects computers over a relatively short distance, allowing them to share data, files, and resources.
Here are the most common and widely used computer network types: Computer network typesĪs networking needs evolved, so did the computer network types that serve those needs. The internet, online search, email, audio and video sharing, online commerce, live-streaming, and social networks all exist because of computer networks. You can further define a computer network by the protocols it uses to communicate, the physical arrangement of its components, how it controls traffic, and its purpose.Ĭomputer networks enable communication for every business, entertainment, and research purpose. The internet is the largest example of a WAN, connecting billions of computers worldwide. For example, a LAN (local area network) connects computers in a defined physical space, like an office building, whereas a WAN (wide area network) can connect computers across continents. Geographic location often defines a computer network.
#Standard network kit software
You build a computer network using hardware (e.g., routers, switches, access points, and cables) and software (e.g., operating systems or business applications). What is a computer network?Ī computer network comprises two or more computers that are connected-either by cables (wired) or WiFi (wireless)-with the purpose of transmitting, exchanging, or sharing data and resources.
#Standard network kit how to
In this introduction to networking, learn how computer networks work, the architecture used to design networks, and how to keep them secure.
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