CLASSIFICATION OF NETWORK 

( LAN , WAN & MAN )

• LAN ( Local Area Network )

- Network that connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area.

• WAN ( Wide Area Network )

- Network that covers a large geographic area (such as a city, country, or the world) using a communications channel that combines many types of media such as telephone lines, cables, and radio waves.

• MAN ( Metropolitan Area Network )

- High-speed network that connects local area networks (LAN) in a metropolitan area such as a city or town

CRITERIA	LAN	MAN	MAN
AREA OF COVERAGE
	Network cover limited geographical area such as closely positioned group of buildings network , network at home, network inside computer laboratory and network in office building .	A high speed network that connects Local Area Networks in a Metropolitan Area such as a cities or town.	Network cover large geographical area such a countries , the  continents or the world
NETWORK SIZE	Small size ( in a building)	Larger size ( in a cities or campus)	Largest size (different states or countries)
SPEED	Fastest in data transferring and access time	Slower in data transferring and access time	Slowest in data transferring and access time
EXAMPLE	Network inside the lap	Surveillance system	Car Navigation System
COMMUNICATION DEVICES	Connected using modems, hubs, switch , router	Connected using modems, hubs, switch , router	The connection is made via satellite communication link or via internet
COST	Less costly setup and maintenance	More costly setup and maintenance	Costliest setup and maintenance
OWNERSHIP	Private	Private	Not owned