Local Area Network (LAN)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network infrastructure that connects computers, devices, and other resources within a small geographic area, such as a home, office, or school. LANs enable communication between devices, allowing them to share resources like files, printers, and internet connections. Typically, LANs consist of network devices such as routers, switches, and Ethernet cables, although wireless LANs (WLANs) use Wi-Fi to connect devices wirelessly. LANs are designed to facilitate high-speed data transfer and resource sharing among a limited number of users within a specific area. They are widely used in businesses and organizations to enhance productivity by enabling seamless collaboration and access to shared resources. Unlike wide-area networks (WANs), which span large geographic areas, LANs are localized and more efficient for small-scale networking needs. LANs can be easily expanded by adding new devices, making them flexible and scalable. Their security is typically managed through firewalls, network access controls, and encryption protocols to prevent unauthorized access.