Types of Networks

Local Area Network (LAN)

This refers to a network on a single premises or in a single building.  Most home, school, business networks can be classified as LANs.

Metropolitan area network (MAN)

A network within a city

Wide area network (WAN)

A network within a country connecting various cities

Global Area Network (GAN)

This refers to a network which spans the entire world.  The most common example of this is the Internet.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

This refers to a small network of devices carried around by a single person. E.g. Connections between somebodies phone, Bluetooth headset and their car radio while they are driving. Most PANs these days would use Bluetooth to connect devices.

References:

Louis E. Frenzel, Networking: WANs, MANs, LANs, And PANs Connect Everyone, Apr. 28, 2002 (Online) Available at: http://electronicdesign.com/communications/networking-wans-mans-lans-and-pans-connect-everyone, Accessed on: 20 November 2013