A Local Area Network (LAN) is a private network that connects computers and devices within a limited area like a residence, an office, a building or a campus. On a small scale, LANs are used to connect personal computers to printers. However, LANs can also extend to a few kilometers when used by companies, where a large number of computers share a variety of resources like hardware (e.g. printers, scanners, audiovisual devices etc), software (e.g. application programs) and data.The distinguishing features of LAN areNetwork size is limited to a small geographical area, presently to a few kilometers.Data transfer rate is ... Read More
The basic computer hardware components that are needed to set up a network are as follows −Network CablesNetwork cables are the transmission media to transfer data from one device to another. A commonly used network cable is category 5 cable with RJ – 45 connector, as shown in the image below:RoutersA router is a connecting device that transfers data packets between different computer networks. Typically, they are used to connect a PC or an organization’s LAN to a broadband internet connection. They contain RJ-45 ports so that computers and other devices can connect with them using network cables.Repeaters, Hubs, and ... Read More
Computer networks have become invaluable to organizations as well as individuals. Some of its main uses are as follows −Information and Resource Sharing − Computer networks allow organizations having units which are placed apart from each other, to share information in a very effective manner. Programs and software in any computer can be accessed by other computers linked to the network. It also allows sharing of hardware equipment, like printers and scanners among varied users.Retrieving Remote Information − Through computer networks, users can retrieve remote information on a variety of topics. The information is stored in remote databases to which ... Read More