A network connects devices so they can share data and resources. In this unit you will learn the main types of network (LAN, WAN, PAN and VPN), the digital infrastructure that the internet is built on, and what the key hardware devices actually do. Get these building blocks solid and the rest of the topic follows.
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Types of network by size and reach
A LAN (Local Area Network) connects devices over a short distance, roughly up to one kilometre, with high data transfer rates and low latency. Examples: a school, an office or a hospital.
A WAN (Wide Area Network) connects devices across large geographic areas such as cities or countries. WANs usually have lower data transfer rates and higher latency than LANs, and often link many LANs together.
A PAN (Personal Area Network) is for one person's devices over a very short range, about 10 metres. Example: a phone linked to a smartwatch and wireless headphones by Bluetooth.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) extends a private network across the public internet using an encrypted tunnel, so remote users can work as if they were directly connected to the private network.
Check you've got it
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1. Which type of network is designed to operate over a short distance (roughly up to one kilometre) with high data transfer rates and low latency?
2. What is the primary goal of a VPN?
3. A switch forwards data within a LAN by making its decisions based on which type of address?
4. Which device acts as a bridge between two networks that use different (disparate) protocols, translating data from one format to another?
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