LAN

A LAN (Local Area Network) connects computers in a small area, usually within the confines of a room or a building. With a LAN, a company can provide easy access to other computers or peripherals. Since the distance between computers in a LAN is so short, the networks are usually high-speed, even though they may use low-cost media to connect, such as twisted pair wiring.

URLs:

Putting your LAN online

An article that explains how to connect your LAN to the Internet.

LAN Times

The homepage for LAN Times magazine, with lots of information about LANs.

LAN technology scorecard

Profiles and compares different LANs.

W3E References:

Ethernet

network link

bandwidth

Detail:

LANs are cost-effective for companies because they allow networked computers to share printers, programs, data files, and storage space. LAN users share data and hardware and LANs are typically high bandwidth (greater than one megahertz).

There are two types of LANs: peer-to-peer and client-server. In a peer-to-peer LAN, there is no centralized server--resources are instead made available from each workstation. Each station also runs the same software and is responsible for its own security. Client-server LANs have a centralized computer that acts as a file server and that runs special networking software. The server is responsible for enforcing security in a client-server LAN.

Ethernet, token ring, Novell Netware, and AppleTalk are all examples of LANs, which are increasingly widespread.