Networking types

Networking is the interconnection of two or more computers for resource sharing. Network models classify networks by size, distance and structure. These models help in understanding the relationship among centralized, distributed and collaborative computing systems. There are three fundamental classifications of network models: They are

Local Area Network (LANs)
Metropolitan Area Network (MANs)
Wide Area Network (WANs)

A LAN links a small group of functionally similar workstations within a local geographic area such as a series of adjacent cubicles or offices on the same floor. Once the network expands to include other floors or divers offices within a metropolitan area, it becomes a MAN. Finally, a WAN is simply a LAN of LANs. WANs expand the boundaries of networking to a global (or even galactic) scale.

Local Area Network (LANs). A local area network combines computer hardware and transmission media in a relatively small area. These systems are usually contained within one department, building or campus. In addition, LANs typically comprise only one transmission media type such as coaxial cable or twisted pair but never both. LANs are characterized by comparatively high-speed communications. These high speeds are possible because LANs use one kind of cable which generally is limited to 5KM or less. MANs and WANs, on the other hand, typically rely on unbound communication media which equates to much slower speeds. LANs occupy a relatively small area, include a relatively small number of machines and the components connect directly to the communication media. LAN hardware gives the system its processing communications, system fault tolerance, and most important, connectivity. LAN software endows the system with productivity, user interface, network management and most important, user transparency.

The two most important components in a LAN are the file server (hardware) and network operating system (software). The data transfer rate ranges from 1 byte to 5 GB pre second. LAN also can act as gateway for internetwork communication and as bridge between two networks. Major advantage of this system is the security provide because no any outsiders can access the resources of a private network.