Types of Computer Networking and What You Need to Know

A computer network is a group of desktops, laptops, and handheld devices connected and able to “talk” to each other. Some basic types of computer networks include:

Personal Area Network

A personal area network (PAN) is a computer network used for communication between computers and devices close to one person. Some devices used in a PAN include personal computers, printers, fax machines, telephones, PDAs, scanners, and video game consoles. PAN includes:

• Wired – A wired PAN is typically built with USB and FireWire connections
• Wireless – A wireless PAN generally is connected via Bluetooth and infrared communication

Home Area Network

A home area network (HAN) is a residential LAN used for communication among all computers, printers, mobile devices, and other digital devices in the home. An important function is the sharing of Internet access, often a broadband service through a cable TV or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) provider.

Local Area Network

A local area network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices within a geographic area, such as a home, a school, a computer laboratory, an office building, or a carefully positioned group of buildings. Wired LANs are usually based on Ethernet technology. There is a new technology to create a wired LAN using existing wires (coaxial cables, phone lines, and power lines).

Virtual Private Network

A VPN is a private network that uses a public network (usually the Internet) to connect remote sites or users. The VPN uses “virtual” connections routed through the Internet from the business’s private network to the remote site or employee. VPN is an inexpensive, efficient, and secure way to connect offices and users.

Other types of networks:

Microsoft Windows, Linux, and most other operating systems use TCP/IP for networking. Apple Macintosh computers used AppleTalk in the past, but now they use TCP/IP.

I need A Techie is the Sina Advisory Group IT division. For all website design, eCommerce websites, and web consulting, please visit www.SinaAdvisoryGroup.com