Computer networks come in different sizes and scopes. Some connect a few devices at home, while others span entire countries. In this episode, we’ll break down:

• The 3 major types of networks: LAN, WAN, MAN
• Their key features
• Simple real-world examples you already use

Let’s get started.

 1. What Is a LAN (Local Area Network)?

A LAN connects devices in a small area, such as a home, office, school, or lab.

 Features:

• High speed
• Limited to short distances
• Often uses Wi-Fi or Ethernet

 Example:

Your home Wi-Fi setup connects your phone, laptop, smart TV — that’s a LAN.

 Common Uses:

• File and printer sharing in offices
• Local multiplayer gaming
• Internal communication in schools

 2. What Is a WAN (Wide Area Network)?

A WAN connects devices across large distances — cities, countries, or even continents.

 Features:

• Slower than LANs (depends on the medium)
• Uses satellite, fiber optics, or public networks
• Often managed by internet service providers (ISPs)

 Example:

The Internet itself is the biggest WAN in the world.

Explore more in Episode 1: What is a Computer Network?

 Common Uses:

• Internet connectivity
• Company branches in different cities
• International communication

 3. What Is a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)?

A MAN covers a city or large campus, bigger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.

 Features:

• Spans a few kilometers
• Common in government, education, or business districts

 Example:

A university network connecting multiple buildings across a city.

 Common Uses:

• Cable TV services
• City-wide Wi-Fi
• Connected hospital networks

 Quick Comparison Table

Feature	LAN	MAN	WAN
Area	Small (room/building)	Medium (city/campus)	Large (country/world)
Speed	High	Medium to high	Varies (often slower)
Ownership	Private (home, office)	Private/public (ISP, gov)	Mostly public (ISPs)
Example	Home Wi-Fi	City-wide Wi-Fi	The Internet

 Summary

• LAN: Small and fast (e.g., home, office)
• MAN: Medium-range (e.g., city-wide college network)
• WAN: Long-distance/global (e.g., internet)

Together, these network types allow us to communicate, share, and access data at any scale.

Which network type do you use most—LAN, MAN, or WAN?
Leave a comment below and share how your devices are connected!