Archive for September 8th, 2012

Electronic communication can take place in many different forms. While the most common network that any company will use is the Internet, linked to all servers throughout the globe, very few will make use of the Net itself as their primary method of networking together computers. As an alternative, it is more beneficial to utilize a short-range computer network that is impossible to access externally. This network is known as a Local Area Network, or LAN, linked by Ethernet sources without having to host from a central terminal.

The Name Sounds Familiar

Generally when somebody thinks of a LAN network, many times the first thing that comes to mind is how it’s used in the video game world. Buddies wanting to play a video game on several consoles and televisions can use a LAN to link to each other and duke it out without needing to link to the Web. While the business world hardly ever plays video games, the concept is the same: any two or more parties that want to stay together on the same network can connect through different computers, whether they are work terminals or home computers, in order to get access to the exact same work programs, documents, information, and communications.

The Benefits of Linked Networks

Perhaps your business has only one laser printer but hundreds of staff members in your office need to print documents. Instead of budgeting out new printers for staff members, it is feasible to run a LAN over the laser printer to all individuals so that they may all from another location print off whatever documents are required. The same idea applies to fax machines and other physical communications, keeping all required devices together on the same operation. LAN networks, in addition, enable individuals to send e-mails or start up an online chat with anyone additionally linked to the server. No need to make use of an outside email provider: the linked network offers security and convenience, free of cost.

What Types of Networks are These?

* Topology networks keep all devices, whether they are computers or scanners or memory drives in a physical geometry. All must be linked in a line or circle.

* Protocols determine the capability to send and receive data. The protocols will enable the network to use different types of hookups.

* Media changes the delivery of information. More than one sort of media can be employed on a shared network, such as a digital television linked in with a coaxial cable that can be updated at any time from within the LAN.

It is even feasible to have a wi-fi LAN if your router is set up to physical servers and switches, allowing any business that has to think bigger to be able to obtain a connection without having to plug in a cable.

Christine Collona has always been interested in information technology and she has sometimes contributed pieces about IT support in Toronto for dynamixsolutions.com.