Computer network is a group of interconnected computers/devices where connections are established between computers to share resources, data and applications. Various types of computer networks exist that are designed to operate in the area they cover and are classified according to network requirements, service type, and network coverage area.
What is Personal Area Network (PAN)?
Personal Area Network (PAN) is computer network that connects computers/devices within range of an individual. As PAN provides a network range usually within the range of 10 meters (33 ft) within the range of an individual, it is called Personal Area Network.
A personal area network typically includes a computer, phone, tablet, printer, PDA (personal digital assistant) and other entertainment equipment such as speakers, video game consoles, etc.
PAN Full Form: Personal Area Network
Examples of PAN
Offline Network
In this, many devices remain connected through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Devices connected to your computer, including printers, mice, speakers, and other devices, are integrated using a personal area network (PAN). So a communication network is formed between devices used in a small single location for example home.
home office
A home office has a separate smaller network set up for work purposes that is separate from the network used by other home devices. This network acts as a separate entity to which many other devices are connected for the purposes of office work.
Body Area Network
It is a mobile network that runs along a personality range for example when a person connects his/her smartphone with bluetooth headphones and walks in the market which refers to body area network.
Types of Personal Area Network (PAN)
Personal Area Network can be of two types on the basis of connection, which includes Wireless PAN and Wired PAN.
Wireless PAN
Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) is a network connected through signals such as Infrared, Bluetooth, ZigBee and Ultrawideband etc.
Wired PAN
Wired PAN is a network connected via cables/wires or USB (Universal Serial Bus).
Characteristics of PAN
- A PAN typically provides interconnection of technical devices around a single user.
- It is widely used in home automation for low data-rate applications.
- PAN may include mobile devices and equipment, such as tablets, printers, keyboards, barcode scanners, game consoles, laptops and other personal devices.
- If connected wirelessly to the Internet, it is called a Wireless Personal Area Network - WPAN.
Advantages and Disadvantages of PAN
Benefits of PAN
- It does not require frequent maintenance and installation.
- Is easy and portable.
- Requires little technical skill to use.
- PAN is relatively flexible and provides high efficiency for short network ranges.
- It requires easy setup.
- Less cost
Disadvantages of PAN
- Low network coverage area / range
- limited to relatively low data rates
- devices are not compatible with each other
- Inbuilt WPAN devices are a bit expensive.
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