What is Local Area Network(LAN)?

A local area network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, laboratory, university campus or office building.

Full Form of LAN is Local Area Network.

LAN

A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line or wireless link to a server. Typically, a LAN encompasses computers and peripherals connected to a server within a distinct geographic area such as an office or a commercial establishment. Computers and other mobile devices use a LAN connection to share resources such as a printer or network storage.

A local area network may serve as few as two or three users (for example, in a small-office network) or several hundred users in a larger office. LAN networking comprises cables, switches, routers and other components that let users connect to internal servers, websites and other LANs via wide area networks.

Typically, a suite of application programs can be kept on the LAN server. Users who need an application frequently can download it once and then run it from their local device. Users can order printing and other services as needed through applications run on the LAN server. A user can share files with others stored on the LAN server; read and write access is maintained by a network administrator. A LAN server may also be used as a web server if safeguards are taken to secure internal applications and data from outside access.

LAN is a type of network. LAN is used to locally connect several devices with each other.

1. LAN normally covers an area of less than 2 miles.

1. It is generally owned privately.

1. Connects some host in a single office, building or campus.

1. It has Client-Server Architecture

1. Depending on the needs of organizations, can be simple as two PCs and a printer in someone's office. Or extended throughout a company.

• Allows sharing of resources.

• Hardware e.g Printer

• Software e.g an application program

• Data