QandAs: Tech

What is LAN?

Answer:
LAN stands for Local Area Network, which

is a comprised of two or more computers in a single location (for example a home or business) that are connected (or networked) together. These computers can be connected through ethernet cables (a wired network) or a wireless LAN that uses radio waves to share information on the network.

One computer works as the server, or hub of the network. All the other computers are connected to and through it and they are called clients. Generally a LAN allows a number of users to share common files, programs or hardware from their own computer. This works well in a household where there is only one printer, or in an office where some files may need to be accessed by lots of people frequently or there are limited printers.

A LAN does not necessarily need to be connected to the internet, although it certainly can be. The internet is a type of WAN, or wide area network. The premise is the same (computers connected to one another through servers) but it covers a wide geography and there is no single organization.