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NETWORK ARCHITECTURE
Computer Network Architecture is defined as the physical and logical design of the network. Computer
network architectures can be one of the following types:

Client-Server Network
Client-Server network is the most common type of a network
architecture. In it, central controller computer is designated as
server, while all the other computers are designated as clients.
The server performs all the major operations such as security and
network management. The clients request the server for various
resources and the server serves their requests. The communication
between the clients also takes place through the server.

Peer-To-Peer Network
Peer-To-Peer network is a network in which all the computers are linked
together with equal privilege and responsibilities for processing the
data. There are no designated servers. Peer-To-Peer network is useful
for small environments, usually up to 10 computers. Computers in a
Peer-To-Peer network can be assigned different roles.

TYPES OF COMPUTER NETWORKS
Computer networks are of different types. On the basis of the geographical area covered, they are
classified as:

Personal Area Network (PAN)
A PAN is a computer network organised within the environment of
an individual user. It can cover an area of a few metres in radius. It is
commonly used to transfer pictures, songs, or small data files between
connected devices, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, MP3 players,
and headphones. PANs can be wired or wireless.

Local Area Network (LAN)
LAN is a computer network which is usually confined to a single
room, building, or group of buildings. It can cover an area of a
few kilometres in radius. LANs are commonly used in places such
as schools, college campuses, hospitals, and offices. LANs can be
wired or wireless.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
MAN is a network of computers within a city, covering an area of hundreds
of kilometres in radius. MANs are formed by connecting multiple LANs.
Cable TV networks and networks between various branches of a school,
bank, hotel, and office within a city are examples of MANs. MANs can be
wired or wireless.

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