Definition of campus area network (CAN)
CAN is a type of computer network in which different computers and devices are interconnected with each other. CAN is made by combining small LAN’s (Local Area Networks). CAN is smaller than WAN (Wide Area Network). CAN is also known as corporate area network when it is installed in a large company. CAN is also known as a controller area network.
Advantages of campus area network (CAN)
Below are some of the advantages of CAN:-
Economical:
CAN is economical in the sense that it uses fewer cables, switches, hubs and routers.
Sharing of data is easy:
In CAN, the message is sent one time and is transferred to all the linked departments easily.
Use a wireless connection:
CAN use a wireless connection for connecting different departments and buildings across one organization.
Transferring files is fast:
In CAN, files are transferred with high speed over the network (internet).
One ISP across all departments:
In CAN, the internet is used from the same ISP (Internet Service Provider).
Disadvantages of campus area network (CAN)
Below are some of the disadvantages of CAN:-
Limitation for connecting nodes:
The connection between nodes (computers) is limited in size i.e. you cannot connect a large number of nodes together in CAN. And also CAN have a maximum length of 40 meters.
Maintenance is expensive:
Troubleshooting and maintenance of CAN are expensive as compared to other networks.
Examples of campus area network (CAN)
- Network in school in which different departments are connected together
- Network in university
- Network in a large company with nearby buildings
- CAN is also used in automotive applications
