A PAN is the smallest network type, used for personal devices such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables. It typically covers a range of a few meters.
- Bluetooth connections
- Infrared connections
- Zigbee networks
A LAN connects devices within a limited area such as a home, office, or campus. It is commonly used for high-speed data sharing and communication.
- Ethernet networks
- Wi-Fi networks within a home or office
A MAN spans a city or a large campus, providing network connectivity to multiple LANs.
- City-wide Wi-Fi
- Cable TV networks
A WAN covers large geographical areas, often connecting multiple LANs and MANs.
- The Internet
- Corporate networks spanning multiple locations
A WLAN is similar to a LAN but uses wireless communication instead of wired connections.
- Home Wi-Fi networks
- Public Wi-Fi hotspots
A SAN is a high-speed network designed for data storage and retrieval, typically used in enterprise environments.
- Fibre Channel SAN
- iSCSI SAN
A VPN extends a private network across a public network, allowing secure data transmission.
- Secure remote access for employees
- Encrypted communication over the internet
An EPN is a private network built by organizations to securely connect different branches and offices.
- Corporate intranet
- Secure connections between company locations
A CAN is a network that connects multiple LANs within a specific campus or educational institution.
- University network infrastructure
- Industrial complex network
A HAN connects devices within a home environment, including smart home appliances.
- Smart home automation
- IoT-based home systems