- A local area network (LAN) refers to a connected environment spanning one or more buildings that links computing devices within close proximity of each other.
- Local area networks can be categorised into Client-server LAN, Peer to peer (P2P) LAN, and Token ring LAN.
- LANs allow us to share resources and provide us with greater control over access permissions and security settings.
OUR TAKE
In the past, traditional methods such as USB were frequently used to send documents. Despite its security, its transmission speed was lagging behind users’ needs nowadays. The emergence of LAN, however, complements them and provides us with an easier and faster alternative.
–Audrey Huang, BTW reporter
This article will introduce LAN’s definition, types and benefits.
Definition
A local area network (LAN) refers to a connected environment spanning one or more buildings – typically in a one-kilometre radius – that links computing devices within close proximity of each other by using ethernet and Wi-Fi technology. LAN is among the most basic components of the global networked landscape, both at consumer and enterprise levels.
Also read: Private wireless network vs WIFI
Also read: Private wireless networks: Ownership, spectrum, and uses
Types
Local area networks can be categorised based on the types of devices they connect, the design of the underlying architecture, and the medium used. There’s also an emerging LAN market that’s native to the cloud era.
1. Client-server LAN
In a client-server LAN environment, a single server connects to multiple devices known as clients. Client devices cannot interact with each other and a centralised machine handles activities such as network traffic management, network access control, etc. This LAN type may be faster in small perimeters, but in a large perimeter, it adds too much stress on the central server
2. Peer to peer (P2P) LAN
In a P2P LAN, there is no centralised server, and all connected devices have access to each other, regardless of whether they are servers or clients. The advantage of a P2P LAN is that devices can freely exchange data with one another, making it easier to stream media, send files, and perform similar data exchange activities. But it is not without its weaknesses. For example, they tend to be less powerful than client-server LANs.
3. Token ring LAN
LANs can be categorised into token ring or token bus types depending on their architectural design. In a token ring setup, all devices are linked in a circular formation, with each device receiving a token based on its specific needs. This concept was pioneered by IBM in 1984, primarily for corporate settings, at a time when ethernet technology was still in its infancy.
Benefits
- Resource sharing: LANs allow us to share resources such as files, printers, and internet connections within a confined area like homes, offices, or schools. This speeds up collaboration and communication among us.
- Security and privacy: LANs provide us with greater control over access permissions and security settings. We can establish secure connections within the local network, minimising the risk of unauthorised access and ensuring the privacy of sensitive information.
