2 min
What is LAN (Local Area Network)? SNT Computer
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- Education
What is LAN (Local Area Network)?
LAN is a cluster of devices such as computers, phones, tablets, and printers that are connected to each other in restricted areas such as home and office, and may consist of networks where sometimes wired, wireless, or both are used together.
A LAN consists of cables, access points, switches, routers, and other components that enable devices to connect to internal servers, web servers, and other LANs over wide area networks.
The rise of virtualization has also triggered the development of VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), which allows network administrators to logically group network nodes and partition their networks without the need for major infrastructure changes. For example, in an office with more than one department, devices in the same department can be logically separated from each other thanks to VLAN, even if they are physically in the same department.
LAN Network Benefits
The advantages of a LAN are the same as for any group of connected devices. Devices can use a single Internet connection, share files with each other, print and access shared printers, and even be controlled by each other.
LANs were developed in the 1960s by colleges, universities, and research facilities primarily to be used to connect computers to other computers.
The widespread use of LANs was not until the development, commercialization, and standardization of Ethernet technology. While the benefits of having devices connected to a network have always been well understood, it wasn't until the widespread use of Wi-Fi technology that LANs became common in almost every type of environment.
Nowadays not only businesses and schools use LANs, but also restaurants, cafes, shops, and homes. Wireless connectivity has also greatly expanded the types of devices that can connect to a LAN.
Now almost anything imaginable can be connected, from computers, printers, and phones to smart TVs, stereos, speakers, lighting, thermostats, window curtains, door locks, security cameras, and even coffee machines, refrigerators, and toys.
What is LAN (Local Area Network)?
LAN is a cluster of devices such as computers, phones, tablets, and printers that are connected to each other in restricted areas such as home and office, and may consist of networks where sometimes wired, wireless, or both are used together.
A LAN consists of cables, access points, switches, routers, and other components that enable devices to connect to internal servers, web servers, and other LANs over wide area networks.
The rise of virtualization has also triggered the development of VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), which allows network administrators to logically group network nodes and partition their networks without the need for major infrastructure changes. For example, in an office with more than one department, devices in the same department can be logically separated from each other thanks to VLAN, even if they are physically in the same department.
LAN Network Benefits
The advantages of a LAN are the same as for any group of connected devices. Devices can use a single Internet connection, share files with each other, print and access shared printers, and even be controlled by each other.
LANs were developed in the 1960s by colleges, universities, and research facilities primarily to be used to connect computers to other computers.
The widespread use of LANs was not until the development, commercialization, and standardization of Ethernet technology. While the benefits of having devices connected to a network have always been well understood, it wasn't until the widespread use of Wi-Fi technology that LANs became common in almost every type of environment.
Nowadays not only businesses and schools use LANs, but also restaurants, cafes, shops, and homes. Wireless connectivity has also greatly expanded the types of devices that can connect to a LAN.
Now almost anything imaginable can be connected, from computers, printers, and phones to smart TVs, stereos, speakers, lighting, thermostats, window curtains, door locks, security cameras, and even coffee machines, refrigerators, and toys.
2 min