Physical cables are used in wired LAN to connect devices to the network. It is often referred to as wired LAN or Ethernet. The Category 5 (CAT5) cable, which comprises four twisted pairs of wires, is the most widely used cable. This kind of LAN provides high-speed communication and is dependable and secure. However, a lot of cabling is necessary, and installing it can be costly and challenging.
In contrast, wireless LAN connects devices to the network via radio waves. Wireless LAN or Wi-Fi are other names for it. Devices can connect to the network wirelessly with a wireless LAN without the use of physical connections. It is practical, adaptable, and economical. In contrast to wired LAN, it has a smaller range, slower speed, and is more prone to interference.
The LAN diagram is crucial knowledge to have in order to comprehend how LAN functions. A LAN diagram is a graphical depiction of the network topology that demonstrates the connections between devices on the network. It comprises gadgets like laptops, printers, switches, routers, and servers. Network administrators can identify problems with their networks, plan network upgrades, and maintain network security by using LAN diagrams.
LAN is the most popular sort of network used in homes, small businesses, and schools. There are four types of networks: WAN (Wide Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), and PAN (Personal Area Network). It is a confined network that links gadgets in a small region. Conversely, WAN links devices over a large geographic area, such as between cities or nations. PAN links devices within a personal space, such as a room or desk, whereas MAN connects devices within a city or town.
A school computer lab is an illustration of LAN, where computers are linked to a server that houses resources including software, files, and other materials. Another illustration is a tiny office where computers and printers are linked to a switch to facilitate resource sharing and communication.
Sharing resources, being cost-effective, scalable, and having centralized management are all benefits of LAN. Because LAN allows devices to share resources like printers, files, and internet connectivity, fewer individual devices are required. Since it reduces the requirement for various resources, it is also economical. As the network expands, LAN may be readily expanded and managed centrally, ensuring effective network administration.
In conclusion, wired or wireless technology can be used to create a LAN. While wireless LAN is practical, adaptable, and affordable, wired LAN is dependable, secure, and provides high-speed access. A LAN diagram aids network managers in understanding the structure of the network and resolving problems. The most popular sort of network in households, small enterprises, and educational institutions is the local area network (LAN), which has benefits like resource sharing, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and centralized management.