A computer network connects different laptops, desktops, mobile devices and other internet-enabled sensors and controllers. It allows users to communicate, collaborate, share data and access digital resources. The digital transformation has brought more processes online for all types of businesses and organizations. These entities need to choose a network that provides the right features, functions and level of security. The wrong choice could unnecessarily expose an organization to cybersecurity issues and limit important functions. Here is a look at 10 types of computer networks and the details that can help businesses and other organizations decide which choice is best for their needs.
Local area network
A local area network (LAN) allows computers and devices to connect to the internet in a confined geographical area using a Wi-Fi signal or ethernet cables. LANs are typically found in homes, offices, schools or other buildings. In addition to connecting to the internet, local area networks permit users to collaborate with others and access resources, such as printers. In an office setting, LANs allow employees to collaborate, share files and access databases. LANs offer high speed, and their relatively small size simplifies security and administration. Though scalability may be an issue for growing organizations, LANs do have remote access capabilities to accommodate those working outside the office.
Personal area network
A personal area network (PAN) is smaller than a LAN. It relies on wireless signals to connect devices within a small area of 30 feet or less. PANs use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi signals or near-field communication technologies to wirelessly connect laptops, desktops or mobile devices. PANs allow tethering, which is when one device connected to the internet shares its connection with other nearby gadgets. It can also work for connecting to resources like printers or collecting data from IoT devices in the same room. In a business setting, PANs allow seamless file-sharing and collaboration between members of a team in the same space.
Virtual private network
A virtual private network (VPN) creates a secure connection between a user's device and a network server. This connection, sometimes referred to as a tunnel, encrypts data so outside parties can't view it. VPN services are ideal for remote employees who want to connect with a business's network from insecure settings, such as public Wi-Fi connections. The tunnels can also enhance security during data transmission between companies. Not only does this help with confidentiality, but it also ensures compliance with data security regulations common in industries like healthcare and finance. Individuals can use VPNs to connect remotely to a business's main network, while site-to-site VPNs protect communications between a company's different offices.
Wireless local area network
A wireless local area network (WLAN) does not rely on ethernet cables to connect devices. Instead, it uses Wi-Fi routers to offer signals throughout an organization's office or other buildings. Wireless settings are more practical in today's digital workplaces because they allow for the easy and secure connection of handheld devices like smartphones and resources like wireless printers. Also, IoT instruments like thermostats and air quality sensors can connect to a WLAN. Third-party providers offer managed wireless LAN services with security and connectivity features that work out of the box after setup. Typically, these services handle updates and configurations for their customers.
Metropolitan area network
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is larger than a LAN. It covers a specific geographic area, such as a city, a district or, as the name suggests, a metropolitan region. A MAN can cover a university campus, a business park or other properties that are too expensive for a single LAN to cover. A metropolitan area network is not a network itself. Instead, it is a collection of multiple LANs. The function of a MAN is to connect these local area networks using cables or long-range wireless signals. These types of computer networks are often flexible. They can expand with the addition of new LANs and support different network protocols.
Campus area network
A campus area network (CAN) is larger than a LAN but smaller than a metropolitan area network. The name refers to one of the most common use cases for this type of network: on a university or corporate campus. The goal of a CAN is to connect the local area networks that cover each building on the campus. The network allows people within the campus to collaborate, share data and use the same resources. A CAN needs to balance connectivity with security because in many use cases, such as on a college campus, the network needs to accommodate a wide range of users and devices.
Storage area network
A storage area network is a specialized type of network for warehousing data. Because of their specific function, storage area networks are not the primary networks for an organization. Rather, they allow companies to have a separate storage infrastructure. A storage area network allows users to store and access large amounts of data and keep it more secure than if it was warehoused within the LAN. They also facilitate the creation of redundancies to ensure that an organization can always access critical data, even during periods of downtime of main networks. Companies can rely on cloud-based storage solutions, which can eliminate the need to maintain onsite servers.
Wide area network
A wide area network (WAN) covers a large geographical region. It functions by connecting local, campus and metropolitan area networks. WANs can cover large cities, states or countries. WANs allow governments to communicate and coordinate activities throughout a country or corporate branches to share data and collaborate even though they are in different locations. These networks can also connect users to different resources, such as databases or payment processing functions. Because they are made up of many smaller networks, WANs are highly scalable, but they pose security challenges because each smaller network may have vulnerabilities that could compromise the entire WAN. Specialized WAN-as-a-Service (WaaS) providers help companies scale and protect their networks.
Enterprise private network
An enterprise private network is a type of wide area network designed solely for internal use. An organization builds and maintains a network for employees to access resources, communicate with other workers and share data across the company. However, since it's a private network, it's not accessible to anyone outside the enterprise. In addition to privacy, one of the main advantages of these enterprise networks is the ability to customize them to fit a company's specific functions and processes.
System-area network
System-area networks connect computer systems and devices within a confined area. This type of network is designed to provide a high level of performance. Companies that use groups of computers or devices for a single function often use system-area networks to enhance the efficiency of communications between these computers. Unlike LANs, which are for general connectivity, system-area networks are expressly for communication between computers, so they can easily be customized to increase speed and focus on specific functions.
What methods are used to manage computer networks?
Network management is important for ensuring proper configurations, security, access and performance for every type of computer network. Network architects and administrators can rely on time-tested designs and practices, but they also need to adopt new network management tools and techniques to prepare for the future. A good network infrastructure allows for new functions, such as AI integration and zero-trust security systems, to work seamlessly to enhance performance, safety and connectivity. The best network management strategy can also depend on a company's needs and processes. Here are the three options:
Cloud-based network management
Cloud-based network management relies on cloud computing resources and services to manage and monitor computer networks. This approach is different from traditional network management, which relies on on-site solutions. Cloud management is attractive because of its scalability and accessibility. It can offer a centralized platform for admins, who can log in from remote locations if needed. Cloud management also allows for the integration of AI-powered automation features, which can take over basic tasks related to monitoring, configurations and onboarding new users.
Converged network management
Converged network management seeks to unify all management processes in one system. The goal is to streamline administration, management and security processes. For instance, a converged network management approach would allow a company to create one system to oversee both wired and wireless networks and to monitor specialized systems like storage area networks. In addition to cost-effectiveness and efficiency, this management approach allows end-to-end visibility. It facilitates network-wide analysis of networks and technologies and simplifies troubleshooting.
Centralized network management
Centralized network management involves bringing all oversight for the network into one system. It is a similar approach to converged network management. However, it may not involve bringing different network types or components onto a centralized platform. The goal is to handle configuration, monitoring and security management from a central console. The centralization can also simplify analysis and troubleshooting.
What type of computer network is best for you?
Each organization needs to consider how they plan to use the network before making any configuration decisions. It's essential to consider all use cases and include future growth plans in the decision. The types of devices and users are also essential variables when selecting the best type of network. The final factors to consider are location, size and remote access capabilities. After weighing all these requirements, your organization needs to choose the type of computer network and configuration that best meets your needs currently and in the future.
