3.1.3 TYPE OF NETWORK

Local Area Network (LAN)A computer network that spans a relatively small area.Used to interconnect computer in a single room, department, office, school or home.Useful for sharing recourses & sharing information i.e software (file & games), hardware (printer)

Transmission rate 10 mbps

Transmission medium coaxial cables.

Network size < 2 kilometer

Few data transmission error

Cost of data transmission less

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A computer network that spans a relatively large area than that covered by LAN.

Used to interconnect computer in a town or city.

Used to mean the interconnection of several LAN by bridging them with backbone line.

Transmission rate 100 mbps

Transmission medium backbone line

Network size < 100 kilometer

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A computer network that spans a relatively larger geographical area.

Typically, a WAN consists of two or more LAN.

Used to interconnect computer in a country.

Used to provide access to computer or file server in other location.

Transmission rate 156 mbps, 622 mbps

Transmission medium no physical connection, just use telephone line & satellite links.

Network size > 100 kilometer

Cost of data transmission is very high.

Conclusion

WAN

MAN

LAN

Differentiatiate

Type Geographical area

Cost speed

LANSmall< 2 km

less 10 mbps

MAN Medium, large than LAN<100km

medium 100 mbps

WAN Largest >100km

highest 156, 622 mbps