Network Security Fundamentals
If done correctly, network security can be a huge help to both private individuals and corporate entities. It is an addition to endpoint security and helps improve network security over time. Network security is a strategy of an organization that protects its assets and all network traffic.
We have compiled a list of all the types of networks currently in use and their uses to help you better understand this topic. This is where you start to understand network security basics.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
A Pan is composed of a wireless modem and one or more computers, phones, printers, tablet, etc. It revolves around one person within a single building. This is the simplest and simplest type of network. These networks are often found in small offices and homes. They can be managed from one device by one person or an organization. Bluetooth is one example of a PAN.
Local Area Network (LAN)
Students are taught about LANs during their first computer class. LANs are one of the most commonly used networks today. LANs allow computers and other low-voltage devices to be connected over short distances within a building, or between two or more buildings that are close together. This allows them to exchange information and resources. Most LANs are managed and maintained by businesses. Routers allow LANs to connect to WANs to transfer data quickly and safely.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
This is available in nearly every cafe in the city. It works like a LAN. WLANs are wireless networks that use WiFi technology. These networks are often used in the same applications as LANs. They don’t require physical cables to connect to them. This allows you to surf the Internet and browse it. Do you like coffee?
Wide Area Network (WAN)
The Internet, which connects all computers around the globe, is the most basic example a WAN. A WAN links computers across greater distances. This is often more complicated than a LAN. This allows low-voltage devices and computers to be connected remotely over a large network. They can communicate with each other even if they are far apart. Multiple administrators are often responsible for maintaining and owning a WAN because of its vast reach. To keep your connections secure, it is common to use VPN or other encryption technology to connect to a WAN.
Storage-Area Networks (SAN)
These networks are a dedicated, high-speed network that links shared storage devices to multiple servers. They don’t depend on a LAN/WAN. They move storage resources from the network to their own high-performance network. Access to SANs is the same as accessing a drive attached directly to a server. There are three types of storage-area networks: unified, virtual, and converged. SANs are often used when you have lots of data.
System-Area Networks (SAN)
This term has been around for only two decades. It is used to explain a relatively local network that is designed to provide high-speed connection in server-to-server applications (cluster environments), storage area networks (called “SANs” as well) and processor-to-processor applications. It creates a high-speed switched environment where any device can connect to any other device and exchange information over a dedicated, high-speed link.
Other network types exist as well, such as CANs (campus-area networks) or MANs (metroarea networks) for greater coverage.
