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John Spacey, December 18, 2016 updated on December 08, 2017
A network is a number of devices that are connected so that they can communicate and exchange data. Networks are often connected to other networks, forming larger networks. The following are illustrative examples.
NanonetworkSpecialized networks for very small machines. For example, a communication protocol that allows nanobots to coordinate their work as a swarm.Networks that are dynamically established when devices are close together. For example, a network that allows you to transfer data between two mobile devices by placing them in close proximity.
Body Area NetworkA mobile network that you create to support multiple devices that you have with you. For example, a network created by a smart phone to support a laptop and other devices.A small network used by one person. For example, a network in a small home office that supports devices such as printers and data storage.
Near-me Area NetworkNetworks that allow you to discover nearby people. For example, a pervasive game that automatically merges the gameplay of nearby devices.A network set up to support a location such as a home, office or factory.A network that is secured such that access is restricted to authorized individuals and digital entities. For example, a home network that can only be used by family members who have been given a wifi password.
A network that allows anyone to connect. For example, a city that provides free wifi in tourist areas.A network set up to support multiple locations such as a network that connects 10 factories and 3 offices.Metropolitan Area NetworkA network that covers a metropolitan area such as a broadband cellular network that provides mobile web and IP telephony for an entire city.
A network that covers multiple cities such as the network of a regional or national telecom company.The internet is a collection of interconnected networks that spans billions of devices with every country on the planet participating. Most networks are connected to the internet.A network built on top of another network, usually the internet. For example, a cloud platform that connects many geographically distributed data centers in a single overlay network using encryption.
Virtual Private NetworkA type of overlay network that is commonly used to connect office locations and remote workers.A popular term for overlay networks that are designed to escape controls or monitoring that exists on the public internet.A physical connection that connects locations such that traffic between locations doesn't go over the internet. Done to enhance security and performance as the line isn't shared with other traffic.Pervasive NetworkA system that makes a large number of geographically distributed wireless networks function as a single network. For example, a system that allows your mobile device to connect to different wifi as you walk around a city such that you always have a connection.The practice of putting computers and networking capabilities into everyday things to extend their functionality. These devices may be designed to connect to a home wireless network or a broadband cellular network.A network established between earth and space missions in deep space such as a probe.Interplanetary InternetThe idea of creating a permanent network in space that connects multiple planets and areas of space. This could be done to support space missions and development.|
Type | | Definition | A number of devices that are connected so that they can communicate and exchange data. | Related Concepts | |
Networking
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