What are the Different Types of Networks Based on Their Size Hierarchy and Topology?
Networks can be classified into various types based on size hierarchy and topology. In terms of size hierarchy, networks can be:
- Local Area Networks (LANs): Small networks covering a single building or floor, primarily used for internal communication.
- Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs): Larger networks spanning multiple buildings or neighborhoods, often used for connecting businesses or institutions.
- Wide Area Networks (WANs): Extensive networks covering cities, regions, or countries, interconnecting LANs and MANs for long-distance communication.
- Global Area Networks (GANs): The largest scale of networks, connecting users worldwide through the Internet.
Based on topology, networks can be:
- Bus Networks: All devices are connected to a single central cable, allowing communication only through the bus.
- Ring Networks: Devices are connected in a closed loop, with data passing around the ring in one direction.
- Star Networks: All devices are connected to a central hub or switch, facilitating communication between any two nodes.
- Tree Networks: A combination of bus and star topologies, with multiple star networks connected to a central bus.
- Mesh Networks: Each device is connected to multiple other devices, creating redundant pathways for data transmission.
Related Questions:
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of LANs?
- When is a WAN more appropriate than a LAN?
- How does the topology of a network affect its performance?
- What is the difference between a bus and a ring network?
- Why is a mesh network more resilient than other topologies?
Related Hot Selling Products:
- Cisco Switches
- TP-Link Routers
- Netgear Modems
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