What is network? Write the types of network

 A network is a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, and other digital devices, that communicate with each other to share resources and information. These devices use a common set of protocols to transmit data, allowing users to access, share, and exchange information efficiently.

### Types of Networks

1. **Local Area Network (LAN)**:

   - Covers a small geographical area, such as a single building or a campus.

   - Provides high-speed connectivity.

   - Example: A network within an office or home.

2. **Wide Area Network (WAN)**:

   - Covers a large geographical area, often spanning cities, countries, or even continents.

   - Connects multiple LANs.

   - Example: The internet.

3. **Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)**:

   - Spans a city or a large campus.

   - Larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.

   - Example: A network that connects different branches of a bank within a city.

4. **Personal Area Network (PAN)**:

   - Covers a very small area, typically a few meters.

   - Used for connecting personal devices.

   - Example: A network connecting a smartphone, laptop, and Bluetooth headset.

5. **Virtual Private Network (VPN)**:

   - Provides a secure connection over a public network (like the internet).

   - Allows users to access a private network remotely.

   - Example: Remote employees connecting to their company's network securely.

6. **Storage Area Network (SAN)**:

   - Dedicated to providing access to consolidated, block-level data storage.

   - Typically used in data centers.

   - Example: A network connecting servers to disk arrays.

7. **Campus Area Network (CAN)**:

   - Covers a campus or a group of buildings.

   - Larger than a LAN but smaller than a MAN.

   - Example: A university network connecting different buildings and departments.

8. **Home Area Network (HAN)**:

   - Designed for connecting devices within a home.

   - Includes devices like computers, smartphones, smart TVs, and home automation systems.

   - Example: A home network that connects a smart thermostat, security cameras, and personal computers.

9. **Enterprise Private Network (EPN)**:

   - Built and operated by businesses to connect various sites.

   - Used to securely share company resources.

   - Example: A corporate network connecting headquarters, branch offices, and data centers.

Each type of network is designed to meet specific needs and use cases, providing varying levels of connectivity, security, and data transfer speeds.