what is network?

Network is a collection of hardware components and computers interconnected by communication channels that allow sharing of resources and information.Networking (Software or hardware) services are configured on home\corporate LAN’s to ensure highest security and user friendly operation. Professional setup helps the LAN to run smoothly and efficiently. 

Networking is the practice of linking two or more computing devices together for the purpose of sharing data. Networks are built with a mix of computer hardware and computer software.

Types of networks:-

             Networks can be categorized in several different ways. 
One approach defines the type of network according to the geographic area it spans.  Common examples of area network types are:

• LAN - Local Area Network
• WLAN - Wireless Local Area Network
• WAN - Wide Area Network
• MAN - Metropolitan Area Network
• SAN - Storage Area Network, 
•           System Area Network, 
•           Server Area Network, 
•           Small Area Network
• CAN - Campus Area Network,  
•           Controller Area Network,
•           Cluster Area Network
• PAN - Personal Area Network
• DAN - Desk Area Network.

Other Types of Area Networks:-

While LAN and WAN are by far the most popular network types mentioned, you may also commonly see references to these others:

• Wireless Local Area Network - a LAN based on WiFi wireless network technology
• Metropolitan Area Network - a network spanning a physical area larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, such as a city. A MAN is typically owned an operated by a single entity such as a government body or large corporation.
• Campus Area Network - a network spanning multiple LANs but smaller than a MAN, such as on a university or local business campus.
• Storage Area Network - connects servers to data storage devices through a technology like Fibre Channel.
• System Area Network - links high-performance computers with high-speed connections in a cluster configuration. Also known as Cluster Area Network.

Network Design:-

        Computer networks also differ in their design. The two types of high-level network design are called client-server and peer-to-peer. Client-server networks feature centralized server computers that store email, Web pages, files and or applications. On a peer-to-peer network, conversely, all computers tend to support the same functions. Client-server networks are much more common in business and peer-to-peer networks much more common in homes.