Introduction to Local Area Network (LAN)

Section Vocab:

  • Local Area Network (LAN) – A network technology used to connect multiple devices within a small area, such as a building or campus.

Associated Learning Outcome:

  • Define LAN: Explain what a LAN is and how it works.

A local area network (LAN) is a type of computer network designed to connect multiple devices within a small area, such as a room, a building, or several adjacent buildings. Through a LAN, devices can share resources such as printers, file storage, and Internet connections. The advantage of LANs is that they provide high-speed connections and security for network communications.

Core idea:

– Scope and Scale: The coverage of a LAN is usually limited to a small geographical area.

– Technical Implementation: LAN can be implemented through wired (such as Ethernet) or wireless (such as Wi-Fi) technology.

– Performance: LANs typically offer higher data transfer rates and lower latency due to shorter physical distances.

Local area networks are the cornerstone of modern information technology infrastructure and are used in a variety of environments, from homes to corporate offices.

Example:

Consider a school computer classroom. Each computer in the classroom is connected to a local area network so that students can access shared resources such as printers and Internet connections. These are all based on LAN.

Video:

Here is a detailed video of explaining what is LAN and how it works:

LANs Assessment:

  1. What is the most common way of LANs?
    1. Ethernet cables and Wifi
    2. Satellite
    3. radio tower
    4. Broadcast station
  2. Affordable options of LANs for industries that rely heavily on?
    1. Mobile devices
    2. Personal Computers
    3. Private funds
    4. Server
  3. What LANs are confined to?
    1. A specific Geographic area, like building or office
    2. The radio
    3. The weather
    4. Non above are correct
  4. Explain the role of IP address in LAN (This is a written response, you may look up on any resource)
  5. What is the defintion of LAN? (This is a written response, you may look up on any resource)