Other network technologies are available to connect workgroups in an organization and remote equipment to other resources. Such technologies include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and virtual private networks (VPNs).

A LAN is a private network that connects computers in an organization's workgroup, department, or building.
As more computers are added to an organization's data processing resources, the need for a LAN to link these independent computers increases. Businesses deploy LANs for users to share files, applications, printers, Internet access, and peripherals such as tape backup drives as shown below.

A WAN is a private network that connects geographically remote equipment, usually through a physical connection using high-speed telephone lines. WANs can be used to interconnect LANs across a campus or across the country. Businesses use WANs for users to share network resources across great distances as shown below.

A VPN is an alternative to a WAN. Rather than using a physical connection, a VPN uses the Internet. Special software on client computers connects across an intranet or the Internet to special software on a dedicated server. VPNs use encryption to keep the data secure. Unlike other remote access options, VPNs allow users to employ higher speed cable modems and DSL, a type of Internet connection that runs on your existing phone line. Businesses use VPNs to provide traveling or telecommuting employees secure access without long-distance costs. The illustration below shows an employee with VPN using the Internet to access company data.
In the next lesson, signs will be used to create meaning on a website.

Click the Quiz link below to test your understanding of other types of networks.
Various Networks - Quiz