What is A Local Area Network (LAN)?

 A Local Area Network (LAN) is a collection of computers, devices, and services that are networked together in a limited area. It is commonly used at offices, university campuses, and other places where many people need access to the same data or resources. LANs offer both speed and scalability with their built-in hardware components, such as switches, routers, and cabling

I  The main purpose of a LAN is to provide communication opportunities for users within a single building or group of buildings. This can be achieved through shared files, printers, and other peripherals connected over the LAN. Additionally, some LANs have been implemented so people can share an Internet connection and applications over the network.

I  At its simplest level, a basic LAN consists of two or more computers that are linked together in order to exchange information. This can be easily done with cables using Ethernet technology or wirelessly via Wi-Fi signals. Generally speaking, cables are preferred for speed but wireless is cheaper and more accessible for multiple users. The more nodes connecting to the same network the more bandwidth is required for adequate speeds for all the users connected to it.

I  The infrastructure behind a local area network has to be maintained periodically in order for efficient performance by its users. This includes ensuring any wiring involved is properly secured from potential damage or tampering as well as monitoring system performance on a regular basis by performing software updates or diagnostics tests on networking equipment like switches and routers.

I  Network security should also not be taken lightly when setting up a new LAN since any malfunctions on these systems can cause serious data breaches of users’ personal information or financial records stored within the network’s files.. Organizations handling sensitive information should take extra precautions by investing in additional security protocols such as encryption software, anti-virus programs or even physical locks mounted around access points into the system itself which adds another layer of protection when authentication methods fail to protect it against malicious individuals attempting unauthorized access into their networks. 

I  There are two different types of constructions when creating local area networks – administrative control computer models (AACMs) and decentralized computer models (DCMs). AACMs involve designating one central computer which controls mapping out how each node will store data as well as seeking out potential conflicts between devices that could arise over time due to usage patterns from individual users whereas DCMs will use distributed computing power from all nodes connected on the network in order distribute workloads efficiently without having one single point of failure that could potentially disrupt operations if damaged beyond repair.

Setting up a local area network requires an understanding of various technologies but fortunately most operating systems come with easy-to-use user interfaces that allow anyone inexperienced in IT management to navigate through basic setup processes needed before transitioning into customizing specific preferences related to bandwidth allocation or authentication methods employed on their own facilities networks.. Realistically speaking though this process could also be handled by third-party service providers 

Advantages of local area network

Ø  Resource sharing: LANs allow users to share resources such as printers, scanners, and files, which can be more cost-effective than each user having their own devices.

Ø  Increased productivity: LANs allow users to easily collaborate and share information, which can lead to increased productivity and efficiency.

Ø  Easy communication: LANs allow for easy communication between users through email, instant messaging, and other communication tools.

Ø  Centralized management: LANs can be centrally managed, which makes it easier to monitor and control network resources, security, and administration.

Ø  High-speed data transfer: LANs typically offer faster data transfer speeds than other types of networks, such as wide area networks (WANs) or the internet.

Ø  Cost-effective: LANs are less expensive to install and maintain than wide area networks (WANs)

Ø  Security: LANs can be secured with firewalls, password protection, and other security measures to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches.

 

Disadvantages of local area network

Ø  Limited geographical coverage: LANs are typically confined to a single building or a small group of buildings, which limits their coverage area.

Ø  Limited scalability: As the number of users and devices on a LAN increases, the network may become congested, slowing down data transfer and causing other performance issues.

Ø  Security risks: LANs may be vulnerable to unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats.

Ø  Limited support for remote access: Without the use of remote access technologies such as VPNs, users who are not physically present in the LAN's coverage area will not be able to access network resources.

Ø  Higher costs: Setting up and maintaining a LAN can be more expensive than other types of networks, particularly if specialized hardware or software is required.

Ø  Limited backup and redundancy: LANs usually have limited backup and redundancy options in case of hardware failure or other issues.