What is a LAN?
LAN stands for local area network. A LAN is a group of
computers and devices that are in a specific location. Devices connect to the
LAN with an Ethernet cable or via Wi-Fi. Your home may have a LAN. If your
computer, tablet, smart TV, and printer are connected wirelessly over Wi-Fi,
these connected devices are part of your LAN. Only your devices have access to
your LAN.
Some history on LAN
LANs were first used by colleges and universities in the
1960s. These computer networks were used to catalog library collections, record
classes, record student grades, and share equipment resources.
Business groups did not like LANs until Xerox developed PARC
Ethernet in 1976. The first commercial use of this new technology was Chase
Manhattan Bank in New York City. In the early 1980s, many companies had an
Internet network (intranet) with hundreds of computers sharing printers and
storing files in one place.
After the release of Ethernet, companies such as Novell and
Microsoft developed software products to manage these Ethernet LANs. Over time,
these network devices became part of popular computer operating systems.
Microsoft Windows 10 has tools for setting up a home network.
LAN functions
LAN is available in many sizes. A LAN is a group of devices
connected through a home Internet connection. Small businesses have local area
networks that connect a dozen computers to printers and file storage. Most LANs
are managed by a server that stores files, shares data between devices, and
routes them to printers and scanners.
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