LAN Full Form – Local Area Network
What is LAN (Local Area Network_ – It is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area, such as residences, schools, laboratories, university campuses, etc. Computers connected to the LANs are called workstations.
What is the full form of LAN, and What is it?
The full form of LAN in Computer is:
L – Local
A – Area
N – Network
It is a computer network that interconnects computer within a limited area, such as residences, schools, laboratories, university campuses, etc. Computers connected to the LANs are called workstations. These are the user’s personal computers, and they can access the file server for the software and storage.
Must Read: What is networking?
History of LAN
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1970s | The concept of LAN was developed, primarily to share resources and improve communication within a small geographical area. |
| 1973 | Robert Metcalfe, who later founded 3Com, outlined the basic principles of Ethernet, which would become the dominant network technology. |
| 1976 | Xerox Corporation’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) developed the first LAN technology, Ethernet. |
| 1980s | LANs started to become more common in businesses as personal computers became more affordable and widespread. |
| 1983 | The IEEE 802.3 standard for Ethernet over coaxial cable was published. |
| 1985 | The IEEE 802.11 committee to create a standard for wireless LANs was formed. |
| 1990s | The use of LANs expanded beyond businesses and started to become common in homes, schools, and other institutions. |
| 1997 | The first IEEE 802.11 standard for wireless LANs (Wi-Fi) was published. |
| 2000s | The use of both wired and wireless LANs continued to grow, with improvements in speed, reliability, and security. |
| Present | LANs are now a fundamental part of most businesses, many homes, and many public spaces, with ongoing developments in speed, capacity, and wireless technology. |
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What are the Different Types of LANs?
Based on the medium of connections (wired and wireless) and the protocol used, LAN is mainly classified into Ethernet LAN and Wi-Fi LAN.
- Ethernet LAN: It is the most common type of LAN that uses a wired connection. Ethernet uses cables to connect devices together, typically in a star topology, where all the devices are connected to a central hub or switch. They are known for their speed and reliability, i.e. why they are commonly used in businesses and schools where high-speed connectivity is required.
- WI-FI LAN: It is a type of LAN that uses wireless connections, i.e., instead of cables, devices are connected to the network using radio waves. These networks are used in homes, cafes, and other public places as it allows mobility.
What are the Different Components of LAN?
| Components | Descriptions |
| Computers/Workstations | These are the devices individuals use to access the network. They can be desktop computers, laptops, or even mobile devices. |
| Network Interface Cards (NICs) | These are hardware components installed in each computer, which allow the computer to connect to the network. They can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi). |
| Switches | These are devices that connect multiple devices on a LAN. They receive, process, and forward data to the destination device. |
| Routers | These are devices that connect multiple networks. In a LAN, a router connects the network to the internet. |
| Cables | These are used in wired LANs to connect devices. The most common type is an Ethernet cable. |
| Wireless Access Points (WAPs) | These are used in wireless LANs to broadcast the network signal, allowing wireless devices to connect to the network. |
| Servers | These are powerful computers that store files and applications for the network. They can serve different purposes, such as file, email, or web servers. |
| Software | This includes the operating system and network software that manage network connections, network security, and device communication. |
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of LAN?
| Advantages of LAN | Disadvantages of LAN |
| Resource Sharing | Limited Range |
| High Speed | Maintenance Cost |
| Improved Communication | Network Failure |
| Cost-Effective | Security Risk |
| Data Security | Limited Internet Bandwith |
Must Check: Difference Between LAN and WAN
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What is the full form of LAN?
The full form of LAN is Local Area Network.
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Vikram has a Postgraduate degree in Applied Mathematics, with a keen interest in Data Science and Machine Learning. He has experience of 2+ years in content creation in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, and Mac... Read Full Bio
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