local area network(LAN)

LOCAL AREA NETWORKs:

Local Area Networks(LANs) are privately-owned networks within a small area, usually a single building or campus of up to a few kilometers. Since it is restricted in size, that means their data transmission time can be known in advance, and the network management would be easier.

the main factors that are increasing demand are:

•  cost reductions through sharing of information and databases, resources and network services.
• Increased information exchange between different departments in anorganization, or between individuals.
• The trend to automate communication and manufacturing process.
• Improve the community security.
• Increasing number and variety of intelligent data terminals, PCs and workstations.

in a LAN  the interconnection of systems is two types they are:

• Peer-to-Peer Networking

It offers a quick way to tie all your resources and people together. Users

can access information from and share it directly with others in the

network. Users can easily share files and directories in a peer-to-peer

network.

• Client/Server Networking

Clients are connected to a centralized server. The server provides

centralized security, backup, and recover capability and controls access

to sensitive files and expensive peripherals. A dedicated server improves

data integrity, because the most current version of a document will be

saved in one location. This type of network requires a network operating

system.

  note:selecting of peer to peer or client/server networking is depends upon our requirements.