LAN (Local Area Network)

LAN is computer network that spans a relatively small area. Most LAN's are confined to a single building or group of buildings. However, one LAN can be connected to other LANs over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves. A system of LANs connected in this way is called a Wide Area Network (WAN).

Most LANs connect workstations and personal computers. Each node (individual computer) in a LAN has its own CPU with which it executes programs, but it also is able to access data and devices anywhere on the LAN. This means that many users can share expensive devices, such as laser printers, as well as data. Users can also use the LAN to communicate with each other, by sending e-mail or engaging in chat sessions.

Related Topics:

1. Components of a LAN
   
   
   
   • Workstation
   
   
   • File Server
   
   
   • Gateway
   
   
   • Network Interface Unit
   
   
   • Active Hub
   
   
   • Passive Hub
   
   
   • LAN Cable


2. Characteristics of LAN
   
   
   
   • Resource Sharing
   
   
   • Productivity
   
   
   • Communication
   
   
   • Management


3. LAN Topologies
   
   
   
   • Bus Topology
   
   
   • Ring Topology
   
   
   • Star Topology
   
   
   • Tree Topology


4. LAN Media-Access Methods
   
   
   
   • Carrier Sense Multiple Access Collision Detect (CSMA/CD)
   
   
   • Token Passing


5. LAN Transmission Methods
   
   
   
   • Unicast
   
   
   • Multicast
   
   
   • Broadcast


6. Wireless LANs




• Line-of-sight


• Scattered infrared