A Brief History of LAN
LANs were first used by colleges and universities in the 1960s. These computer networks were used to catalog library collections, schedule classes, record student grades, and share equipment resources. LANs didn’t become popular with business organizations until after Xerox PARC developed Ethernet in 1976. Chase Manhattan Bank in New York was the first commercial use of this new technology. By the early 1980s, many businesses had an internet network (intranet) consisting of hundreds of computers that shared printers and file storage at a single site. After the release of Ethernet, companies such as Novell and Microsoft developed software products to manage these Ethernet LAN networks. Over time, these networking tools became a part of popular computer operating systems. Microsoft Windows 10 has tools to set up a home network.
Characteristics of a LAN
LANs come in many sizes. A group of devices connected through a home internet connection is a LAN. Small businesses have LANs that connect a dozen or a hundred computers with printers and file storage. The largest LANs are controlled by a server that stores files, shares data between devices, and directs files to printers and scanners. A LAN differs from other types of computer networks (like the internet) in that the devices connected to the LAN are in the same building such as a home, school, or office. These computers, printers, scanners, and other devices connect to a router with an Ethernet cable or through a wireless router and a Wi-Fi access point. Multiple LANs can be connected over a telephone line or radio wave.
Two Types of Local Area Networks
There are two types of LANs: client/server LANs and peer-to-peer LANs. Client/Server LANs consist of several devices (the clients) connected to a central server. The server manages file storage, printer access, and network traffic. A client can be a personal computer, tablet, or other devices that run applications. The clients connect to the server either with cables or through a wireless connection. Peer-to-Peer LANs don’t have a central server and cannot handle heavy workloads like a client/server LAN. On a peer-to-peer LAN, each personal computer and device share equally in running the network. The devices share resources and data through a wired or wireless connection to a router. Most home networks are peer-to-peer.
How to Use a LAN in the Home
A home LAN is a great way to create a connection between every device in your home including PCs, laptops, tablets, smartphones, printers, fax machines, and gaming devices. When your devices are connected to your Wi-Fi, you can share files privately with family members, print wirelessly from any device, and access data on other connected devices. A home LAN can also be expanded to include home security systems, smart TVs, home environment controls, and smart kitchen devices. When these systems are added to the LAN, every system can be controlled from any device and location in the home. If you have Wi-Fi internet in your home, you’re ready to set up a wireless home LAN network.
