A network is a group of two or more interconnected devices that communicate with each other to share data, resources, and services using communication protocols.
👉Network = Connection between devices
If devices are connected and can exchange data → that is a network.
Examples of network devices:
Each connected device is called a node.
At home:
All connect to the same router.
That is a Home Network (LAN).
In an office:
All connected together → That is an Organizational Network.
📖 Definition (Technical)
Networking is the process of connecting devices together and enabling communication, data sharing, and resource sharing between them.
👉Networking = The process of building and managing a network
When you send a WhatsApp message:
That complete communication process is called Networking.
1️⃣ Sender creates data
2️⃣ Data is converted into packets
3️⃣ Packets travel through network devices
4️⃣ Receiver reassembles data
This communication follows rules called protocols.
Share printers, internet, files.
Email, video calls, messaging.
Store data on server.
Access systems from anywhere.
Easy to add more devices.
Shared resources reduce cost.
| Network | Networking |
| Structure | Process |
| Connection | Action |
| Devices connected | Managing communication |
❓ What is a Network?
A network is a collection of interconnected devices that communicate and share data using standard communication protocols.
❓ What is Networking?
Networking is the process of connecting devices and enabling communication between them to exchange data and resources.
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that covers a small geographical area such as a home, office, school, or building.
In your house:
Mobile + Laptop + Smart TV connected to one Wi-Fi router → That is LAN.
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a city or large campus area.
A Wide Area Network (WAN) connects networks over large geographical areas like countries or continents.
A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a very small network created around a single person.
A Campus Area Network (CAN) connects multiple LANs within a campus or university.
📍 Coverage Area
P → L → C → M → W
Small → Bigger → Bigger → Bigger → Biggest 🌍
PAN → LAN → CAN → MAN → WAN
| Type | Full Form | Coverage | Example |
| PAN | Personal Area Network | Few meters | Bluetooth |
| LAN | Local Area Network | Building | Home Wi-Fi |
| CAN | Campus Area Network | Campus | University |
| MAN | Metropolitan Area Network | City | ISP Network |
| WAN | Wide Area Network | Country/World | Internet |
❓ What are the types of networks?
Networks are classified based on geographical coverage into PAN, LAN, CAN, MAN, and WAN. LAN covers small areas like homes or offices, while WAN covers large areas like countries or the entire world.
