[Addison West]

Networks can be classified based on their size, range, and purpose, each serving distinct functions in connecting devices and facilitating communication.

First, we have a Local Area Network (LAN). This type of network is confined to a small geographic area, like a single building or campus. LANs are used to connect computers and other devices within close proximity, allowing for resource sharing such as files, printers, and internet connections. They are essential for businesses, schools, and homes to enable efficient communication and collaboration.

There is also a Wide Area Network (WAN). Spanning larger geographic areas, WANs connect multiple LANs. The internet is the most well-known example of a WAN. These networks are crucial for organizations with multiple locations, enabling them to communicate and share resources across cities, countries, or even continents.

Next is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). MANs cover a larger area than LANs but are smaller than WANs, typically encompassing a city or a large campus. They are used by organizations that need to connect multiple LANs within a metropolitan area, often providing high-speed connectivity and internet access.

Finally, a Personal Area Network (PAN). These networks are designed for personal use, connecting devices within a very short range, usually within a few meters. Examples include Bluetooth connections between a smartphone and a headset or a laptop and a printer. Each type of network serves a unique purpose, from connecting personal devices to linking global organizations, facilitating communication, resource sharing, and data transfer.