Classification of Computer Network

Judging from the geographical range covered by a network, usually divided into three types, LAN, MAN, and WAN.

• Local Area Network (LAN)

LAN is a computer network that covers an area in one room, one building, or several adjacent buildings. For example, the network in a single integrated campus or at a company location is classified as a LAN. LAN transmission media generally use a cable (UTP, coaxial cable, or fiber optics). But some are not using a cable and is referred to as Wireless LAN (WLAN). LAN speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
According to the LAN type can be either a client / server (network model that has a client and server) or peer-to-peer (network model that gives equal footing to all computers).

• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

MAN is a network that covers an area of one town or with a range of about 10-45 km. Network connecting several banks located in one city or campus that is spread in several locations classified as a MAN. Such networks generally use transmission media by micro waves or radio waves. But there also are using leased lines (leased line).

• Wide Area Network(WAN)

Network which includes inter-city, inter-provincial, inter-state, and even between continents called the WAN. Example of a WAN is a network that connects the ATM (Automatic Teller Machine). Another example is the internet.