Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) · lesson 9 of 35 · 20 min
What Is a Computer Network?
A computer network is two or more devices connected together to share resources and communicate. Networks range from two computers in the same room to billions of devices spanning the globe.
Network Types
LAN vs WAN — Key Differences
LAN: High speed (1 Gbps+), low latency, privately owned, uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi, confined to one site.
WAN: Lower speed over long distances, higher latency, uses leased lines or the public internet, spans multiple sites or countries.
The Internet is the world’s largest WAN — a network of networks connected using the TCP/IP protocol suite.
A school connects all its computers in one building. This is a:
- WAN
- MAN
- LAN
- PAN
- Answer: 2
A single-building network is a LAN.
Which network type typically covers a city?
- PAN
- LAN
- MAN
- WAN
Answer: MAN
MAN = Metropolitan Area Network, city-scale.
The Internet is best described as a:
- LAN
- MAN
- WAN
- PAN
- Answer: 2
The Internet is a global WAN — a network of networks.
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