What is a local area network (LAN)?
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LANs are networks that are contained within a small geographical location
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Typically, all the hardware used to make a LAN is owned by a single entity
- This makes them more secure than WANs, which have connections owned by third-party companies
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A LAN is a network that is built using or switches that connect several devices
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It is common for one hub or switch to be connected to a router, which will allow the LAN to connect to other networks, such as the Internet
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A LAN can offer many advantages, such as:
- Centralised management - A LAN allows for central maintenance, the monitoring of user activity, and the centralised management of software updates, backups, and storage.
- Security and Administration - A LAN provides centralised security and user administration, allowing for the control of access levels and the use of firewalls and antivirus software to prevent unauthorised access.
- Resource Sharing and Accessibility - A LAN allows users to share an Internet connection and hardware resources, such as printers and other peripherals. Users can collaborate by sharing files and folders, and have the flexibility to log on and access their files from any machine on the LAN.
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Disadvantages of a LAN include:
- If hardware fails, the network may not function properly or even at allAdded
- Networks are more prone to attacks than standalone computers
- Access to data and peripherals can be slow depending on network traffic when compared to locally stored data and locally connected peripherals
- Maintenance - LAN networks require maintenance to ensure that software is up to date. Upgrades and backups can be costly
What is a wide area network (WAN)?
- A wide area network (WAN) connects multiple local area networks (LANs) over a large geographical area
- A WAN allows users in different locations to share data and resources as if they were on the same network
- WANs usually use third-party connections such as leased lines, fibre, or satellite links
- These connections are provided by ISPs or telecommunications companies rather than owned by a single organisation
- For example, a company may connect its LANs in London and Manchester to create a WAN
Advantages of a WAN
- Enables communication and data sharing between offices or sites in different locations
- Allows access to central servers and shared databases from anywhere with a connection
Disadvantages of a WAN
- Typically slower than LANs due to greater transmission distances
- More expensive to set up and maintain because of leased lines or ISP costs
- More vulnerable to security risks as data travels across public networks
Worked Example
The internet can be considered an example of a WAN.
Describe what is meant by the term ‘WAN’.
[2 marks]
How to answer this question:
- For 2 marks, you need to make 2 points about what a WAN is
- Since the question uses WAN as an acronym, it is a good idea to show you know what WAN stands for
Answer:
Example answer that would get full marks: A WAN (short for Wide Area Network) is a network spread over a large geographical area such as a country.
Worked Example
A coffee company has coffee shops located across the country. Each shop has its own Local Area Network (LAN)
The company wants to connect the shops in a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Describe two characteristics of a LAN.
[2 marks]
How to answer this question:
- You need to make 2 points about how a LAN is different from a WAN:
- LANs cover a small geographical area
- The hardware that makes up the LAN is typically owned by one company
- For this reason, a LAN is considered to be more secure than a WAN
Answer:
Example answer that would get full marks: LANs are considered more secure than WANs since the LAN’s connections are owned by the organisation that owns the LAN.