LAN (Local Area Network) refers to a local network that connects multiple computers or electronic devices to enable data exchange and shared use of resources. LANs are limited in their geographical extent: typically to a single room, building, or group of buildings. They are widely used in private households and businesses.
Structure and Functionality
A LAN consists of at least two end devices, such as two computers, connected via cable or wirelessly through WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) to a router. In larger networks, several thousand devices can be integrated, including smartphones, printers, scanners, storage devices, and servers. These devices communicate with each other and can exchange data or use shared resources.
Application examples
- Home network: In private households, a LAN connects all devices so that they can access shared resources such as printers and internet access. A printer integrated into the network can be used simultaneously by multiple devices.
- Corporate network: Businesses use LANs to enable communication and data exchange between computers, servers, and other devices.
- LAN party: At a LAN party, computer gamers network their PCs in one location to play games together or exchange files. This typically happens by connecting the computers via LAN cables to a central switch or router.
Vorteile
LANs offer high data transfer rates, which are particularly useful for data-intensive applications. They also score well in terms of security: Since a LAN is limited to a confined geographical area, it is easier to monitor and protect. Devices such as printers and storage devices can be shared by all devices on the network. Additionally, all devices can communicate with each other, which in businesses promotes collaboration between colleagues and departments as well as efficiency.
LAN Limitations
While LANs are ideal for networking within a limited area, they reach their limits at greater spatial distances. These are usually reached at about 500 meters. For connecting networks over greater distances, other network types such as MANs (Metropolitan Area Networks) or WANs (Wide Area Networks) are used.
