Network types
✓ local area network (LAN)
✓ wireless local area network (WLAN)
✓ wide area network (WAN).
Local area network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that connects devices within a limited geographical area,
such as a home, office building, or campus, and allowing the devices to share resources and communicate
with each other.
A typical LAN will consist of a number of computers and devices (for example, printers) which will be
connected to hubs or switches. One of the hubs or switches will usually be connected to a router to allow the
LAN to connect to external networks, such as the internet.
Characteristics of LAN
1. Geographical Area: LANs cover a small geographical area, typically within a building or campus.
2. High Data Transfer Rate: LANs typically have high data transfer rates, often in the range of 100 Mbps to
10 Gbps.
3. Low Error Rate: LANs have a low error rate due to the short distance and controlled environment.
4. Shared Resources: LANs allow devices to share resources such as files, printers, and internet connections.
5. Centralized Management: LANs are often managed centrally, making it easier to maintain and
troubleshoot the network.
Benefits of networking computers together using LANs
1. LANs allow the sharing of resources such as hardware (e.g. printers and scanners) and software (e.g.
word processors and photo editing software)
2. They permit easy communication between users of the LAN (e.g. by using simple text messaging
between computers on the network)
3. They use a network administrator that ensures security and use of the LAN is constantly monitored
(e.g. the administrator can maintain passwords and also monitor data traffic within the network).
4. Increased Productivity: LANs provides fast and reliable access to resources and information.
5. Cost-Effective: LANs can be cost-effective, reducing the need for individual devices to have separate
internet connections.
Drawbacks of networking computers using LANs
1. easier spread of viruses throughout the whole network
2. queues for shared resources (such as a printer) which can be frustrating
3. slower access to external networks/Internet
4. increased security risks when compared to stand-alone computers. Also vulnerable to security risks, such
as unauthorized access and data breaches.
5. if the main server breaks down, in many types of network structures, the network will no longer function
properly
6. Dependence on Infrastructure: LANs require a physical infrastructure, which can be prone to outages and
technical issues.
7. Limited Coverage: LANs have limited geographical coverage, which can make it difficult to connect devices
in different locations.
8. Maintenance and Support: LANs require regular maintenance and support, which can be time-consuming
and costly.
Wireless local area network (WLAN)
A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a type of local area network that connects devices wirelessly, using
radio waves to transmit data between devices and a central access point or router.
The AP receives and transmits data between the WLAN and the wired network structure. End-users access
the WLAN through wireless LAN adapters which are built into their devices.
Characteristics of WLAN
1. Wireless Connectivity: WLANs use radio waves to connect devices to the network, eliminating the need
for cables.
2. Mobility: WLANs allow devices to move freely within the network coverage area, maintaining
connectivity.
3. Flexibility: WLANs can be easily expanded or reconfigured to accommodate changing network needs.
4. Convenience: WLANs provide convenient access to the network and internet, without the need for
cables.
5. Radio Frequency (RF) Signal: WLANs use RF signals to transmit data between devices and the access
point or router.
Benefits of WLAN
1. All computers can access the same resources such as printers from anywhere within range of the Aps.
2. Increased Mobility: WLANs provide users with the freedom to move around while staying connected to the
network.
3. As there is no cabling there is a safety improvement
4. Increased flexibility: WLANs can be easily expanded or reconfigured to accommodate changing network
needs.
5. Easy Installation: WLANs are often easier to install and set up than traditional wired networks.
6. Adding new computers and devices is easy and the cost is reduced since extra cabling isn’t needed
7. Convenience: WLANs provide convenient access to the network and internet, without the need for cables.
8. Reduced Costs: WLANs can reduce the costs associated with installing and maintaining wired networks.
Drawbacks of WLAN
1. Security, such as unauthorized access and data breaches can be a big issue since the signal can be picked up.
2. There may be problems of interference, which can affect the signal.
3. Data transmission issue: the data transfer rate is slower than in wired LAN.
4. Range and Coverage: WLANs have limited range and coverage, which can make it difficult to maintain
connectivity in large areas.
5. Performance: The performance of the WLAN can be impacted by the number of users and devices
connected.
6. Interoperability Issues: WLANs can experience interoperability issues with different devices and equipment.
Wide area networks (WANs)
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a computer network that spans a large geographical area.
WANs connect multiple local area networks (LANs) or devices over a large distance.
WANs often use public or private telecommunications networks.
WANs are used where computers or networks are situated a long distance from each other geographically
(for example, in a different city or country).
The network of ATMs (automated teller machines) used by banks is one of the most common examples of the
use of a WAN.
Because of the long distances between devices, WANs usually make use of some public communications
network (such as telephone lines or satellites), but they can use dedicated or leased communication lines,
which can be less expensive and also more secure (less risk of hacking).
WAN end systems and intermediate syst
As shown above, A typical WAN will consist of end systems and intermediate systems. In the diagram, 1, 3, 7
and 10 are known as end systems and the remainder are known as intermediate systems.
The following is used as a guide for deciding the ‘size’ of a network:
WAN: 100 km to over 1000 km
MAN: 1 km to 100 km
LAN: 10 m to 1000 m (1 km)
Characteristics of WAN
1. Large Geographical Coverage: WANs cover a large geographical area, often spanning multiple cities,
states, or countries.
2. Use of Public Networks: WANs often use public telecommunications networks, such as the internet, to
connect devices and LANs.
3. Multiple Connectivity Options: WANs can use various connectivity options, such as leased lines, satellite
links, and VPNs.
4. Complex Network Management: WANs require complex network management, including configuration,
monitoring, and troubleshooting.
5. Higher Costs: WANs can be more expensive to establish and maintain than LANs, due to the large
geographical coverage and complexity.
Benefits of WAN
1. Remote Connectivity: WANs enable remote access to resources and applications, allowing employees to
work from anywhere.
2. Centralized Management: WANs enable centralized management of network resources and applications.
3. Improved Communication: WANs facilitate communication and collaboration between different locations
and teams.
4. Scalability: WANs can be scaled up or down to meet changing business needs.
Drawbacks of WAN
1. Higher Costs: WANs can be expensive to establish and maintain, especially for high-speed connections.
2. Security Risks: WANs are more vulnerable to security risks, such as hacking and data breaches, due to the
use of public networks.
3. Complexity: WANs require complex network management, which can be time-consuming and require
specialized expertise.
4. Dependence on Service Providers: WANs often rely on service providers, which can impact network
reliability and performance.
