LANs connect groups of computers and low-voltage devices together across short distances within a building or between a group of two or three buildings in close proximity to each other to share information and resources. Enterprises typically manage and maintain LANs. Larger than LANs, but smaller than metropolitan area networks MANs, explained below , these types of networks are typically seen in universities, large K school districts or small businesses.
They can be spread across several buildings that are fairly close to each other so users can share resources. These types of networks are larger than LANs but smaller than WANs — and incorporate elements from both types of networks. MANs span an entire geographic area typically a town or city, but sometimes a campus. Software can be shared , software packages are stored on the server and downloaded to workstations as requested. Note that a licence still has to be bought for each copy of the software needed.
Data can be shared because database files stored in the server are available to users around the network; data from CD-ROMs can also be shared across the network. Central back-up can take place automatically at regular intervals. A user will usually be able to retrieve work that has been deleted by mistake. Messages can be sent to people working at other computers on the network which can save time and paper. It is possible to set up a local intranet such as that on the KLB school network.
The web pages of information can be accessed only over the LAN. An intranet is free because it does not involve phone links. Disadvantages of LANs: Printing can be slow. LANs enable convenient information exchange between the various devices connected to the network. Wireless local networks offer the ability to easily integrate devices into home or corporate networks, and are compatible with wired Ethernet LANs.
However, the data throughput is lower than for an Ethernet connection. The range of a LAN depends on the standard and the transmission medium, but can be increased by signal amplifiers, known as repeaters. Regarding gigabit Ethernet via glass fibers, a signal range of several miles is possible.
However, Local Area Networks rarely stretch across more than one building complex. As a rule, these are individual establishments in a company that are connected to a MAN via leased lines.
High-performance routers and high-performance fiber-based connections are used, which enable a significantly higher data throughput than the internet. The transfer speed between two remote nodes is comparable to that of communication within a LAN. The infrastructure for MANs is provided by international network operators.
These are several WiFi access points working together in different locations. The current transmission standard DSL is technically only available where copper cables have been laid.
While Metropolitan Area Networks connect areas that are near each other in rural or urban areas, Wide Area Networks WANs extend across large geographic areas, such as countries or continents. The number of local networks or individual computers connected in a WAN is unlimited, in principle. Wide Area Networks are usually owned by an organization or company, and are operated privately or rented.
In addition, internet service providers use WANs to connect local company networks and consumers to the internet. The internet is, however, not the only computer network of its kind. Table of Contents. Save Article. Improve Article. Like Article. Previous Types of Network Topology. Recommended Articles. Article Contributed By :. Anshika Goyal. Easy Normal Medium Hard Expert.
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