University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

A computer network consists of two or more nodes (devices such as computers, phones, or servers) connected by links (cables or wireless signals) to share data. Networks are categorized by physical scale, primarily as Local Area Networks (LANs), which connect devices in a single location like a home or office, and Wide Area Networks (WANs), which span large geographical distances.

The Internet is the largest WAN and functions as a network of networks—millions of independent networks interconnected by agreeing to use shared protocols. Protocols provide the agreed-upon rules for formatting and exchanging data, allowing diverse devices across the world to communicate seamlessly.

Network Structure and Scale

Which type of network is designed to connect devices within a single physical location, such as a home or office?

The Internet is categorized as the largest Local Area Network (LAN).

What role do protocols play in allowing diverse devices to communicate across networks?

Describe the basic components of a computer network and explain the key difference in scale between a Local Area Network (LAN) and a Wide Area Network (WAN).

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