Episode 22: Specialized Network Types — WLAN, PAN, CAN

This episode explains specialized network types beyond the traditional LAN and WAN categories. Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) extend LANs using radio signals, Personal Area Networks (PANs) connect devices within very short ranges such as Bluetooth or NFC, and Campus Area Networks (CANs) link multiple LANs across educational or business campuses. Understanding these categories ensures you can identify unique characteristics, technologies, and challenges associated with each.

The discussion expands with practical applications. WLANs require security protocols like WPA3 to protect traffic, PANs are critical for device-to-device communications such as pairing smartphones with headsets, and CANs involve backbone technologies to interconnect multiple buildings. These scenarios highlight how exam questions may present definitions or troubleshooting cases that hinge on recognizing the network type. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your certification path.