What is another name for a perimeter network?

A perimeter network is commonly referred to as a DMZ, which stands for "demilitarized zone." This is a specific part of a network that serves as a buffer zone between an internal network and the external internet. The purpose of a DMZ is to add an additional layer of security to an organization's local area network (LAN) by isolating external-facing services, such as web servers or email servers, from the internal network where sensitive data is stored.

By placing critical servers in the DMZ, organizations can restrict access and better monitor traffic entering and leaving the network. This setup helps prevent direct attacks on the internal network while still allowing public access to certain services, thereby enhancing overall security. The term "demilitarized" suggests a neutral zone, which aligns with this concept of limiting exposure and controlling access points in network architecture.

In contrast, LAN refers to a Local Area Network, which typically covers a smaller geographical area, like an office or building, while WAN stands for Wide Area Network, designed to connect multiple LANs over larger distances. VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology used to create secure connections over the internet, often used for remote access but does not describe a type of network layout like a perimeter or DM