Description: A local area network, commonly known as a LAN, is a system of interconnecting devices that allows communication and data exchange within a limited geographic area, such as an office, home, or campus. These networks are fundamental in the modern work environment as they facilitate collaboration among users and resource sharing, such as printers and storage. LANs can be wired, using Ethernet cables, or wireless, through technologies like Wi-Fi. The data transmission speed in a local network is usually significantly higher than in broader networks, such as wide area networks (WAN), making them ideal for applications that require high performance. Additionally, local networks can be configured in various ways, including star, ring, or bus topologies, depending on the specific needs of users and the available infrastructure. Managing these networks is crucial to ensure security and performance, which involves implementing measures such as firewalls and appropriate security protocols.
