Personal Area Network: Applications, Examples, & Types of PAN with Diagram

In this article, we are going to cover about what is personal area network diagram with their different types and examples of PAN networks as well. I can hope that at the end of this blog post, you will get fully understand about Personal Area Network with ease.

What is Personal Area Network?

Definition: Personal Area Network (PAN) offers to make connections of multiple devices or other equipment under the single user’s environment within 10 meters to 30 feet. These types of connections can be done wired or wireless. PAN network enables with few computer devices, telephones, video game consoles, electronic devices, laptop, PDAs, printers, smart phone, and other wearable computer devices. 

Personal Area Network Diagram

personal-area-network

Initial PAN architecture was designed by Thomas Zimmerman of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab, but after that IBM’s Almaden Research Lab developed PAN (Personal Area Network) concept.

Personal Area Network Tutorial Headlines:

In this section, we will show you all headlines about this entire article; you can check them as your choice; below shown all:

  1. What is Personal Area Network?
  2. Brief History of PAN Network
  3. Types of Personal Area Network with Examples
  4. How Does Personal Area Network Work?
  5. How to Setup a Personal Area Network?
  6. Personal Area Network Applications
  7. Vulnerabilities of PAN Network
  8. Difference Between PAN and LAN Network
  9. Difference Between PAN and WAN Network
  10. Personal Area Network Upsides
  11. Characteristics of Personal Area Network
  12. Personal Area Network Downsides
  13. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
  • What is meant by PAN network?
  • What is personal area network with example?
  • What is personal area network with diagram?
  • Which topology is used in PAN (Personal Area Network)?
  • What is the range of a personal area network?
  • What technology is used in a personal area network?
  • What is an example of a personal area network?
  • What are the 2 types of personal area network?
  • What is the use of a personal area network?

Let’s Get Started!!

Brief History of PAN Network

Here is a brief history of Personal Area Network (PAN):

Personal Area Network concept was first introduced by Thomas Zimmerman and other researchers at M.I.T.’s Media Lab in 1995.

PAN is a variant of computer network that help to link computers/devices within a person’s immediate vicinity, typically within a range of 10 meters.

PANs are most intended for individual usage; and they are helpful for low data-rate applications, including home automation, small office, and healthcare.

Bluetooth, a WPAN standard, was first released in 1989 at Ericsson Mobile under the moniker “short-link” radio technology to allow wireless headphones to connect.

PAN network can be wireless or wired, and there are different types of PANs depending on their connection type, like as Body Area Network (BAN), Offline Network, and Wireless PAN (WPAN).

Types of Personal Area Network

Personal Area Networks (PANs) can be classified into two types based on their connection:

Also Read: What is LAN (Local Area Network)? Types and Examples!!

Wireless PAN (WPAN): A WPAN is a network that covers the smallest geographical area and caters to the needs of a single user. It allows devices to connect and communicate wirelessly within a short range, typically up to 10 meters (33 feet). WPANs are commonly used for personal and home applications, such as connecting smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home devices.

Examples of WPAN Network:

  • Bluetooth
  • Fire-wire
  • ZigBee
  • Ultrawideband
  • Wibree
  • wireless USB
  • Wireless keyboards
  • Wireless Mice
  • Smartphones
  • TV remotes
  • Wireless printers
  • Gaming consoles

Wired PAN (WPAN): A WPAN is a network that uses wired connections to interconnect devices within a personal workspace. It provides a more reliable and secure connection but with the limitation of physical cables. Wired PANs are less common than WPANs and are often used in specialized applications where high-speed and low-latency communication is required, such as in the medical field or industrial settings.

Examples of Wired PAN Network:

USB: USB is a wired technology that allows devices to connect to each other and to a computer using a physical cable.

HDMI Connections: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables can be used to connect devices in a wired PAN. For example, you might connect a laptop to a television or a monitor to create a PAN for audio and video output.

FireWire: FireWire wired technology allows devices to make connection with each other and to the computer by using a physical cable. It is commonly used to link the peripherals like as digital cameras, external hard drives, and video cameras to a computer system.

How Does Personal Area Network Work?

PAN network can be wired or wireless. A wired PAN delivers the short connections in between peripherals by using wired technologies like as USB, IEEE 1394, or Thunderbolt. A wireless PAN (WPAN) is carried over a less-powered, short-distance wireless network technology like as IrDA, Wireless USB, Bluetooth, or Zigbee. The reach of a WPAN varies from a few centimetres to a few meters.

How to Setup a Personal Area Network?

To set up a Personal Area Network (PAN), follow these steps:

  • Enable PAN technology on your devices (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct).
  • Ensure device compatibility and that they support the same PAN technology.
  • Pair devices by making them discoverable and following on-screen prompts.
  • Configure settings for file sharing, audio streaming, or data exchange.
  • Test the connection to verify its working.
  • Secure the PAN with strong passwords, PINs, or security features.
  • Enjoy your PAN for sharing and connecting.
  • When not in use, disable PAN technology or set devices to non-discoverable mode for added security.
  • Refer to device manuals for specific setup instructions and prioritize security to protect your PAN.

Personal Area Network Applications

Personal Area Network is used in several areas, such as –

Also Read: What is Bus Topology in Network? Diagram, Advantages, and disadvantages!!

Bluetooth Devices: Bluetooth is one of the most well-known PAN technologies. With the help of this technology, wide range of devices can be connected with each other such as wireless headphones, keyboards, speakers, smartphones, and etc.

Wireless Personal Health Monitoring: PANs network is also used to connect health monitoring devices such as heart rate monitors, blood pressure monitors, and glucose meters with your smartphone or tablet that are enabling individuals to track their health and share data along with healthcare professionals.

Wearable Technology: Smart watches, fitness trackers, and other wearable devices often use PANs to connect to smartphones or other devices to exchange data and provide notifications.

Gaming Controllers: Wireless gaming controllers for consoles or PCs use PAN technology to connect to the gaming system that are allowing for a more immersive gaming experience.

File Transfer: PANs are useful for quickly transferring files between devices without the need for cables. For example, Bluetooth helps to transfer files in between smartphones.

Printers and Scanners: Connecting a printer or scanner to a PAN enables wireless printing and scanning from various devices in your home or office.

Wireless Audio Streaming: Wireless speakers and audio systems often use PAN technology to stream audio from a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Personal Networking: PANs can be used for creating ad-hoc networks for device-to-device communication. For instance, you can use PANs to play multiplayer mobile games with friends or share an internet connection between devices.

Digital Cameras: Some digital cameras have PAN capabilities, allowing you to transfer photos wirelessly to a computer or smartphone.

Smartphones and Tablets: These devices often have PAN features that are allowing them to connect to other devices like as headphones, smart home gadgets, and speakers.

Keyless Entry Systems: Some modern cars and homes use PAN technology for keyless entry, where your smartphone serves as the key to unlock doors or start your vehicle.

Personal Entertainment Systems: Wireless game controllers, headphones, and remote controls for TVs and media centers are commonly used in PAN applications.

Body Area Network: Mobile network is move able network along with user. For instance, In this network users are eligible to make connection with another devices like as table through smart phone, and then users can share their data between those devices.

Offline Network: In this network, users can establish network in own home, so it is also called the “Home Network”. Home network is designed to integrated devices like as printer, TV, computer, and other home appliance s but they cannot be connected to internet.

Small Home Office: Main objective of this network is to make connection with different types of devices with the internet, and corporate networks along with VPN.

Vulnerabilities of PAN Network

There are some commonly vulnerabilities and potential issues that are associated with PAN networks, as following them:

Bluetooth and Wireless Technology Vulnerabilities: Many PANs rely on wireless technologies like Bluetooth, which can be vulnerable to eavesdropping, unauthorized access, and device spoofing if not properly secured.

Weak Authentication and Authorization: Insecure or weak authentication methods can make it easier for unauthorized users to gain access to PAN devices and data.

Lack of Encryption: Insufficient or absent encryption can expose data transmitted over PANs to interception and theft.

Unauthorized Pairing: If devices are not configured securely, they can be susceptible to unauthorized pairing attempts by nearby devices.

Device Theft and Data Exposure: Since PAN devices are often mobile; they can be lost or stolen, potentially leading to data exposure if the devices are not adequately protected.

Firmware Vulnerabilities: Vulnerabilities in the firmware of PAN devices can be exploited to compromise device security.

Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks: Attackers may attempt to flood a PAN with connection requests, causing service disruption and rendering devices unusable.

Difference Between PAN and LAN Network

Aspect

Personal Area Network

Local Area Network

Scope

Limited to a short range up to (few tens of meters)

Covers a relatively larger geographic area, often within a single building or campus.

Purpose

Designed for personal or small-scale applications, connecting devices for personal convenience.

Used for broader business, organizational, or residential networking needs, facilitating multiple users and services.

Size

Typically involves a small number of devices, often around 2 to 8, though not strictly limited.

Involves a larger number of devices, ranging from several to hundreds or even thousands.

Range

Short-range network, with a limited coverage area.

Offers a more extensive coverage area, often encompassing a building or a campus.

Technology

Uses technologies like Bluetooth, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi Direct for short-range wireless connections.

Employs Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or other wired and wireless technologies, often with greater data transfer rates and range.

 Difference Between PAN and WAN Network

Aspect

Personal Area Network

Wide Area Network

Scope

Limited to a short range up to (few tens of meters)

Covers a wide geographic area, often spanning cities, regions, or countries.

Purpose

Designed for personal or small-scale applications, connecting devices for personal convenience.

Supports a broad range of applications, including connecting remote offices, data centers, and providing internet access across long distances.

Size

Typically involves a small number of devices, often around 2 to 8, though not strictly limited.

Involves a large number of devices, potentially spanning numerous locations with interconnected devices.

Range

Short-range network, with a limited coverage area.

Offers a wide coverage area, potentially spanning hundreds or thousands of kilometers.

Technology

Uses technologies like Bluetooth, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi Direct for short-range wireless connections.

Employs technologies like leased lines, MPLS, the internet, or satellite links for long-distance communication, often with higher bandwidth.

Personal Area Network Upsides

There are some benefits of personal area network, such as

Less Expensive

In PAN network, no need any type of cable for making connection between multiple devices. In this computer network, no required addition data charges to use internet, so it is cost effective compare to other network systems.

Data Protection

PAN network is getting higher secure to other network technologies, because in this network all devices are getting permission from authorized person before transmitting data between multiple devices, so it is impossible to get any third-party interruption. 

Link to multiple devices concurrently

In personal area network (PAN), multiple devices can be linked to single device at a time. For example – Many mobiles and tables can connect to single mobile device.

No need additional space

In this PAN network, to connect many devices you require only Bluetooth system in multiple devices, and they can share file and data between them. Such as – wireless mouse can make connection with laptop or desktop via Bluetooth.

Easy to use

No need additional advance configuration, so it can be used easily.

Reliable and Stable

PAN network is more reliable and stable, if it is used within 10 meters area.

Other advantages are:

  • Data synchronization between multiple devices
  • It is used in different areas such as offices, meetings and conferences.
  • It is also used in devices like as Smart TV, AC remotes etc.
  • It is great portable because PAN network is used in wireless network.

Characteristics of Personal Area Network

There are various features of personal area network, such as –

  • It offers the single user environment to connect multiple devices.
  • It needs less power
  • Low cost
  • It allows the small region communication
  • In this network, mostly personal devices with in small region
  • PAN devices are wireless mice, keyboards, and Bluetooth systems

Personal Area Network Downsides

Personal Area Network has some limitations, like as –

Also Read: What is Hybrid Topology in Network? Advantages and Disadvantages!!

Limited Area

This network can transmit data within 10 meters of range.

Data Transmission is Slow

Bluetooth is not able to share massive data with higher speed between the multiple devices, so this PAN network is slower network to another network technology such as LAN, MAN, WAN etc.

Health Issue

PAN network generates harmful ray or signal such as microwave signals, so these signals are getting bad impact on your mind and heart.

Interfere with Radio Signals

Data can be lost, due to interfere with radio signals.

Other Disadvantages are

  • Personal area network (PAN) is used for higher expensive devices such as smart phones, PDA, laptops, and digital cameras.
  • Transmission of infrared signals on the single line only

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is meant by PAN network?

PAN network stands for “Personal Area Network“; and it allows to make connections of multiple devices or other equipment under the single user’s environment within 10 meters to 30 feet.

What is personal area network with example?

Personal area network (PAN) is going to concern along with swap of information in the vicinity of a user. These systems are enabled with wireless along with transmitting data in between different types of electronic devices like as smartphones, personal computers, tablet computers, and so on.

What is personal area network with diagram?

Above in this article, we already explained about personal area network (PAN) along with its diagram; you can check it.

Which topology is used in PAN (Personal Area Network)?

There are basic topologies are used into PAN network like as ring, mesh, bus, star, tree or fully connected one.

What is the range of a personal area network?

The range of personal area network is typically within 10 meters.

What technology is used in a personal area network?

Many technologies are used into PAN network as wired and wireless like as Bluetooth, Fire-wire, ZigBee, Ultrawideband, Wibree, and so on.

What is an example of personal area network?

The most popular real world example of personal area network (PAN) is to make connection in between smartphone and Bluetooth earpiece. PAN network also helps to link along with laptops, tablets, printers, keyboards, and other computing devices

What are the 2 types of personal area network?

There are two different types of PAN network like as Wired PAN and Wireless PAN network. In wired PAN (Personal Area Network), physical wires can be used like as USB or FireWire. And another is wireless PAN network, wireless connections are established like as   infrared, ZigBee, Bluetooth and ultrawideband, or UWB. This network can be spread in up to 10 meters. Wireless personal area network is also known as “WPAN”.

What is the use of a personal area network?

A personal area network (PAN) is used into computer networking for making interconnecting devices (computers, smartphones, tablets and personal digital assistants) along with an individual user’s workspace.

Summing Up

Now, i hope that you have completely understood about what is personal area network diagram with their different types and examples of PAN networks with ease. If this article is valuable for you, then please share it along with your friends, family members or relatives over social media platforms like as Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, Twitter, and more.

Also Read: What is Ring Topology in Network? Diagram, Advantages and Disadvantages!!

If you have any experience, tips, tricks, or query regarding this issue? You can drop a comment!

Happy Learning!!

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