Networking Type

Networking Types

A network is a collection of computers and hardware devices that are connected for the purpose of exchanging information and sharing resources. Networking refers to the process of designing, implementing, upgrading, and managing networks and network technologies.

Home networks are relatively simple. You can easily find tools to help you create an efficient, fast, and secure network. If you want to link more than two devices, you can set up a Local Area Network (LAN). Other types of networks include wide area networks, wireless networks, and remote access networks.

Simple Network

A network is said to be a simple when two computers or other networkable devices make a direct connection with each other. Wires or cables can be used to connect the two systems, or the two systems can be connected wirelessly. Simple networking is used in homes with one or two linked computers. Most commonly, people set up simple networks to streamline file sharing

Local Area Network

A Local Area Network (LAN) is used to connect at least two devices. Like a simple network, computers on a LAN also share files and printers. Computers on one LAN can also share connections with other LANs in addition to connections to the Internet. LANs can also incorporate televisions, gaming consoles, and printers. Most home offices or small businesses use a LAN for networking systems.

Wide Area Network

Wide area networks connect a large number of computers and usually cover a large geographic area like a city, county, or university. Generally, WANs connect several LANs and other small scale area networks. WANs are made of highly specialized equipment that is generally not found in consumer stores. A perfect example of a WAN is the Internet, which joins local and metropolitan area networks across the world.

Wireless Network

Wi-Fi is the standard wireless technology that is used for building wireless LANs. Wi-Fi technology is used in businesses and communities to establish public hotspots. Another common wireless technology used for networking is Bluetooth. It allows easy communication as well as sharing of information over short ranges and is generally used by handhelds, cell phones, and other peripheral devices. Cellular wireless technology is used for voice communications over mobile phones.

Remote Access

Remote access enables you to access computers and other networks from outside the LAN. Examples of remote access include Dial-up and broadband Internet services, which require you to connect to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). A remote access server or communication server is a computer that has the necessary software to access remote systems. Remote access servers and computers include a firewall server to ensure security in addition to a router, which is used to forward remote access requests to another network. Remote Access is also used to enable virtual private network (VPN) connections.