Networking
An Introduction to Networks
Computers have now become a necessity. They are no longer sophisticated machines on which only highly qualified engineers can work. In almost every office today you find at least one PC. The reason is simple. We are moving into the age of communication and information
Local Area Network
A LAN is basically interconnection of several computers by communication lines within a geographical limit. It may be described as a group of computers and other systems located reasonably close to one another, connected via communication links to share computing resources such as printers, storage devices etc.
LAN: Local Area Network
LAN today acts as a problem solver. To allow communication, information sharing, collaboration among different users, LAN can be used. LAN is typically used in a small area, say, a building or an office complex.
Components of LAN
LAN is made up of hardware as well as software components. Hardware consists of interface cards in all the machines and cables that tie them together. The software includes the drivers for all peripherals and network O.S. that manages the network. Some of important components are:-
Features of LAN
Limited Geographic Limits:-
A LAN is designed for a small area. Generally it spans a single office, work group floor in a building, or in a campus etc. LAN uses different protocols or rules lor information transmission.
Network OS and Security
One reason why LANs are becoming accepted today is the easy-to-use operating system. The network operating system simply picks up from where the local operating systems on the PCs leave off. It supplies all the missing bits and pieces required for operating in a networked environment.
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