Classification of Network

Micro Project Report

Title: Classification Of Computer Network

1. Classification of Computer Network

A computer network is a group of computers linked to each other that enables the computer to
communicate with another computer and share their resources data and applications.

There are many different types of networks which can be used for difficult purpose and by difficult
types of people and organization A computer network can be categorized by their size. It is mainly
four types. they are: -

1. Local Area Network (LAN)

2. Personal Area Network (PAN)

3. Wide Area Network (WAN)

4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

5. Campus Area Network (CAN)

1
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

1.1 Local Area Network (LAN)

 LAN stands for local area network

 Local Area Network is a group of computers connected to each other in a small area such as
building, office.
 LAN is used for connecting two or more personal computers through a communication medium
such as twisted pair, coaxial cable, etc.
 It is less costly as it is built with inexpensive hardware such as hubs, network adapters, and
ethernet cables.
 The data is transferred at an extremely faster rate in Local Area Network
 Local Area Network provides higher security.
 LAN Are muscularly used to create the network and provide the facility of internet, file sharing,
common resource share.
 Awork to internet connections would most likely require broadcast network (LAN) with a
connection to the internet (packet switched network
 Example:

a) Wired LAN (ethernet -hub, switch).

b) Wireless LAN (wi-fi).

2
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

1.2 Advantages of LAN

 LAN allow sharing of expensive resources such as laser printers and high-capacity, high speed mass
storage device among a number of users.

 LAN allows high speed exchange of essential information between key people in an organization. if
properly managed, this will provide greater efficiency and productivity.

 Through Lan, one can store all critical data at a central place and many users can then access and
work on this data.

 since data can store centrally, you can take the back-up of all important files daily on tapes or hard
disk drives.

 Simple and reasonable cost: the primary benefit of the local area network is that is immediate and
easy to set up and also its price is minimum.

 Accessing of software program: with the help of LAN, software programs are also shared. You can
incorporate a single licensed program that can be used by any device on a network, Consequently
sharing software is a simple and straightforward way.

 Data protection: data protection is a safe and secure way to keep information on the server. Here if
you wish to update or eliminate any data, you can do so rapidly on a single server computer and
other device are obtain to new information.

 Fast communication: LAN connected system to communicate directly at very high speed, based on
the LAN model and installed ethernet cabling. The most prevalent enabled speed is
10Mbps,100Mbps, and1000Mbps.

3
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

1.3 Application of LAN

1. Office environments:
LANs are extensively used in office environments to facilitate communication and resource sharing
among computers and devices within the same building or campus. This includes sharing files,
printers, and internet access.

2. Educational institutions:
LANs are employed in school, colleges, and university to connect computer and enable access to
educational resources, online databases, and collaborative tools among student and faculty.

3. Home networking:
LANs are used in homes to connect multiple devices such as computers, smartphones, tables, smart
TVs and gaming consoles to share resources like internet acc ess, printers, and media files.

4. Gaming:
LANs are popular among gamers for organizing multiplayer gaming sessions where players can
complete against each other or team up in a local network environment, providing low-latency and
high-speed connections.

4
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

2.1 Personal Area Network (PAN)

 A personal area network is a network is a network that is based on individual’s workplace. The
individual’s device is the Centre of the network, which other devices connected to it. There are also
wireless personal area networks.

 Personal Area Network is a network arranged within an individual person, typically within a range of
10 meters.

 Personal Area Network is used for connecting the computer devices of personal use is known as
Personal Area Network.

 Thomas Zimmerman was the first research scientist to bring the idea of the Personal Area Network.

 Personal Area Network covers an area of 30 feet.

 Personal computer devices that are used to develop the personal area network are the laptop, mobile
phones, media player and play stations.

5
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

2.2 Advantages of Personal Area Network

1. Security:

The most important feature for the devices connected to the network is security. Personal Area Network
is more secure as compared to other networks that are wired such as Ethernet. Personal Area Network
makes use of data encryption that is being used or transmitted by the devices connected to the network.
All the devices that want to transmit data in the network need to first take permission from the
authorized party in order to avoid attack or interruption from any other party outside the network.

2. Cost Effective:

As multiple devices are connected in the network there is no need for cables and wires for building the
connection between devices. Rather than using cables, the devices are connected with the help of radio
frequency. The devices make use of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi as a medium between other devices in the
network. Upon the use of the internet, no additional data charges are applied. Therefore, personal area
network is more cost-effective as compared to other networks.

3. Synchronization:

Data synchronization is easy in personal area networks. The data can get synchronized easily between
the connected devices in the network. The devices connected to the network can be used to exchange
data, download or share data and upload data.

4. Easy to use:

Personal Area Network is easy to use and user-friendly. Without any problem, the devices get connected
to other available devices. The list of devices is available, the user can select the device present in the
list. Once selected the device gets connected automatically. The devices are also easy to use and
identifiable as they have a unique IP address.

5. Versatile:

The use of a Personal Area Network is versatile. It is used in many applications such as Bluetooth,
headsets, printers, AC remotes, and smart TVs. As personal area networks can be connected easily it is
used in smaller area applications.

6. Auto- Configuration:

Personal Area Network has the feature of auto configuration. The network is made auto-configurable so
that devices get added to it automatically. In personal area network there is no need for manual
configuration. Configuration of a personal area network is easier as compared to local area network
(LAN)

6
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

2.3 Applications of Personal Area Network

1. Bluetooth Devices
Bluetooth technology enables PAN connections between devices such as smartphones, laptops,
tablets, headphones, smartwatches, and other wearable devices. This allows for easy file sharing,
data synchronization, and audio streaming.

2. Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs)

PANs can be used in wireless sensor networks where sensors are deployed in a limited area to
monitor physical or environmental conditions. For example, PANs can be employed in home
automation systems to monitor temperature, humidity, and lighting levels.

3. Healthcare Monitoring
PANs play a crucial role in healthcare applications for monitoring and tracking patient health.
Wearable devices equipped with sensors can collect vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and
temperature, and transmit this data to a centralized system for analysis by healthcare professionals.

4. Smart Homes
In smart home environments, PANs facilitate communication between various smart devices such as
thermostats, security cameras, door locks, lighting systems, and appliances. This allows for
centralized control and automation of home systems for increased convenience, comfort, and energy
efficiency.

7
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

3.1 Wide Area Network (WAN)

 Wide area network is a network that covers a larger geographical area, usually with a radius of more
than a kilometre, such as states or countries.

 A wide area network is quite bigger network than the LAN.

 A wide area network is not limited to a single location, but it spans over a large geographical area
through a telephone line, fibre optic cable or satellite links.

 The internet is one of the biggest WAN in the world.

 A wide area network is widely used in the field of business, government, and education.

8
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

3.2 Advantages of Wide Area Network

1. Greater Geographic Coverage

Unlike Local Area Networks (LANs), which are limited to a small area like an office or building,
WANs can span across cities, states, and even countries. This allows businesses and individuals to
communicate with each other over long distances without having to rely on traditional methods like
snail mail or phone calls.

2. Enhanced Data Security

WANs often use advanced security protocols to protect data as it travels across multiple networks.
This means that sensitive information like personal details or financial transactions can be
transmitted safely without the risk of unauthorized access.

3. Increased Flexibility
WANs are designed to be scalable and adaptable, which means they can easily accommodate
changes in traffic and bandwidth demands. This is especially useful for businesses that experience
fluctuations in traffic throughout the day, as WANs can adjust to meet their needs.

4. Higher bandwidth

WAN networks usually cover large geographical areas. EX.1000km or more than the wide area
network has higher bandwidth than LAN and MAN networks.

5. Message exchange

With the help of the internet of things (IOT) and LAN, a sudden growth of WAN based device can be
seen. This communication via message can be done fastest with the help of the most popular apps
like messenger and WhatsApp.

9
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

3.3 Application on WAN

1. Corporate connectivity
WANs are used by multinational corporations to interconnect their offices, branches, and data centers
located in different cities or countries. This enables seamless communication, data sharing, and
resource access across the organization.

2. Remote access and telecommuting

WANs support remote access technologies such as virtual private networks (VPNs), allowing
employees to securely connect to the corporate network from remote locations, enabling
telecommuting, and remote collaboration.

3. Cloud computing and services

WANs provides connectivity to cloud service providers, allowing organizations to access cloud-
based applications, storage, and infrastructure-as-a-services (laaS) solutions from anywhere in the
world.

4. Internet access
WANs serve as the backbone for global internet connectivity, enabling uses to access websites,
online services, and digital content across continents through internet service providers (LSPs) and
network backbone providers.
3

10
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

4.1 Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

 MAN or Metropolitan area Network covers a larger area than that covered by a LAN and a smaller
area as compared to WAN.

 MAN has a range of 5-50km.

 It connects two or more computers that are apart but reside in the same or different cities.

 It covers a large geographical area and may serve as an ISP (Internet Service Provider).

 MAN is designed for customers who need high-speed connectivity. Speeds of MAN range in terms
of Mbps. It’s hard to design and maintain a Metropolitan Area Network.

 The fault tolerance of a MAN is less and also there is more congestion in the network.

 It is costly and may or may not be owned by a single organization. The data transfer rate and the
propagation delay of MAN are moderate.

 Devices used for transmission of data through MAN are Modem and Wire/Cable.

 Examples of a MAN are part of the telephone company network that can provide a high-speed DSL
line to the customer or the cable TV network in a city.

1. MAN- devices:
2. Switches/Hub
3. Routers/Bridges

11
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

4.2 Advantages of MAN

1. High Bandwidth:
MANs typically provide high bandwidth connectivity, allowing for fast data transmission rates
within a metropolitan area. This enables efficient communication and data transfer between different
locations within the network.

2. Scalability
MANs are scalable, meaning they can easily accommodate the addition of new nodes or devices as
the network grows. This scalability makes MANs suitable for expanding businesses or organizations
that require flexible and adaptable network infrastructure.

3. Improved Connectivity
MANs enhance connectivity by connecting multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) within a
metropolitan area. This allows for seamless communication and resource sharing between different
departments, offices, or campuses located across the city.

4. Cost-Effectiveness
MANs can be more cost-effective than Wide Area Networks (WANs) for connecting geographically
dispersed locations within a metropolitan area. By leveraging existing infrastructure and
technologies, MANs can provide cost-efficient connectivity solutions for businesses and
organizations.

12
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

4.3 Application of MAN

1. City-wide internet access

MANs provide high-speed internet connectivity to businesses, government office, educational
institutions, and residential areas within a city or metropolitan region. This facilitates reliable internet
access for a large number of users simultaneously.

2. Interconnecting LAN
MANs link multiple LANs spread across different locations within a metropolitan area, enabling
seamless communication and resource sharing among organizations, campuses, or branches of a
company.

3. Public services and infrastructure management

MAN support various public services such as traffic management systems, surveillance cameras, street
lighting control, and utility monitoring within cities, improving efficiency and safety.

4. Telecommunication services
MANs are utilized by telecommunications companies to deploy fiber-optic networks for delivering
services like voice, data, and video communication to businesses and residents in metropolitan areas.

13
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

5.1 Campus Area Network (CAN)

 A Campus Area Network (CAN) is a type of network that connects multiple buildings or locations
within a university campus, corporate campus, or any large geographical area such as military bases
or industrial complexes.

 CANs cover a larger geographical area compared to Local Area Networks (LANs) but are smaller
than Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) or Wide Area Networks (WANs).

 CANs facilitate communication and data exchange between different departments, offices, or
buildings within the same organization or institution.

 CANs typically use a combination of wired and wireless technologies, such as Ethernet, fiber optics,
and Wi-Fi, to interconnect buildings and provide network access to users and devices.

 CANs employ various security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, access controls, and intrusion
detection systems, to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access to the network.

 CANs support a wide range of applications and services, including email, file sharing, video
conferencing, internet access, campus-wide databases, and online learning platforms.

14
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

5.2 Advantages of CAN

1. Improved Communication
CANs facilitate seamless communication and data exchange between different departments, offices,
or buildings within the same organization or institution, fostering collaboration and productivity.

2. Centralized Management
CANs can be centrally managed, allowing network administrators to monitor and control network
resources, security policies, and performance parameters from a central location. This centralized
management simplifies network administration and troubleshooting tasks.

3. Cost-Effectiveness
CANs can be more cost-effective than Wide Area Networks (WANs) for connecting multiple
buildings or locations within a campus. By leveraging existing infrastructure and technologies,
CANs provide cost-efficient connectivity solutions for organizations.

4. Scalability
CANs are scalable, meaning they can easily accommodate the addition of new buildings, users, and
devices as the organization grows or expands its campus infrastructure. This scalability makes CANs
suitable for evolving organizational needs.

5. Enhanced Security
CANs employ various security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, access controls, and intrusion
detection systems, to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access to the network. This
enhanced security ensures the integrity and confidentiality of information transmitted within the
campus network.

15
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

5.3 Applications of CAN

1. Education Institutions
CANs are extensively used in educational institutions such as universities, colleges, and schools to
connect various departments, libraries, laboratories, and administrative offices. They facilitate access
to online learning resources, collaboration tools, student information systems, and research
databases.

2. Corporate Campuses
Many large corporations operate across multiple buildings or offices within a campus environment.
CANs enable seamless communication and collaboration between different departments, teams, and
business units. They support shared resources, such as printers, servers, and file storage systems, and
provide high-speed internet connectivity for employees.

3. Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals and healthcare facilities often comprise multiple buildings, including clinics, wards,
laboratories, and administrative offices. CANs facilitate the exchange of medical records, patient
data, and diagnostic images between healthcare professionals. They also support telemedicine
services, remote consultations, and digital healthcare applications.

4. Government Complexes
Government agencies and departments located within a centralized complex or campus rely on
CANs for interdepartmental communication, data sharing, and collaboration. CANs enable efficient
delivery of government services, administration of public resources, and coordination of emergency
response efforts.

16
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

6. What are the advantages of using a network?

Advantages of using a network include:

 Facilitating communications
 Sharing hardware
 Sharing data and information
 Sharing software
 Transferring funds.

17
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, the classification of networks into LANs, WANs, PANs, MANs, and CANs provides a
comprehensive framework for understanding and categorizing different types of network architectures
based on their geographical scope and purpose.

Overall, the classification of networks helps to differentiate between various network types based on
their size, scope, and functionality. Each type of network offers distinct advantages and is tailored to
meet specific communication requirements and operational needs, whether for personal use,
organizational use, or city-wide infrastructure. By understanding the characteristics and applications of
LANs, WANs, PANs, MANs, and CANs, organizations and individuals can design, deploy, and manage
network infrastructures that effectively support their connectivity and communication goals.

18
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

8. Reference

1. Data Communication & Computer Network Documentation and Resources

2. https://chat.openai.com/
3. https://bard.google.com/?utm_source=sem&utm_medium=paid-
media&utm_campaign=q3enIN_sem6
4. https://www.bing.com/chat?form=NTPCHB
5. Guided by Ms. Z. I. Bandar

19
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network

Project Diary

BY

Ms. Tasmiya Firoj Nadaf 25034

Ms. Vedika Mahesh Nagarkar 25035
Ms. Varsha Sanjay Nimbalkar 25036
Ms. Samedha Adinath Patil 25037

Students
Sr.no Date Work done Hours Guide sign
sign
1. 8-1-24 At first, we made the 15 min
group of 5 members.

2. 10-1-24 Searched Project 1 hour

Subject.

3. 12-1-24 We took suggestions 15 min

from our guide for
selecting our project

4. 15-1-24 After selection of 1 hour

project topic wise
searched the basic
information related to it

5. 18-1-24 Then the collection of 1 hour

information was done. 30 min

6. 25-1-24 Later we visited to our 30 min

20
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network
guide for suggesting us
some more
information on topic
and some corrections
in collected
information.
7. 28-1-24 If there were some 1 hour
corrections then it was
corrected.

8. 3-2-24 After correcting it, we 30 min

again visited our guide
to show the corrections.

9. 10-2-24 Then we started 1 hour

searching some more
information on the
topic (for gaining some
more knowledge).

10. 12-2-24 We had a visit to our 30 min

guide after searching
some information.

11. 20-2-24 Some suggestions were 30 min

guided and we tried to
make it correct as per
the guide's requirement.

12. 24-2-24 After making some 20 min

changes we again had a
visit to our guide.

21
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV
Classification of Network
13. 26-2-24 Then we started 1 hour
implementing it on the 30 min
required Software

14. 2-3-24 Then by that time, we 40 min

made the project report.

15. 15-3-24 We had visited to our 1 hour

guide to present our
project.

16. 19-3-24 Then we finally 1 hour

submitted our project
and project report till
this date.

22
SHARAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, POLYTECHNIC YADRAV