Local Area Network

Are you connected to a LAN? A local area network (LAN) connects two or more computers to the same network. This provides several possible benefits as long as the computers are configured similarly and share goals, equipment, or files. 1. Several workers may be networked to the same system within an organization or company. Usually, this means they are located within 100 feet of each other, although this space can vary depending on environmental factors. Four employees who work in the same office or twenty employees scattered throughout a factory can be rigged to the same network to keep everyone connected. In contrast, long-distance connections that can span the globe are known as WANs. The reason for this type of network is to allow employees to share work and resources. 2. Equipment sharing is a big benefit in an employee or family network. For example, sharing a printer will save the cost of more printers, although all users will need to stagger their printing jobs to avoid a backup. Network users also may share dial-up services, a fax machine, and a telephone line, to name a few. Saving space and money are the primary reasons for this type of network setup. 3. File sharing

is another advantage to a home or job network. With the right connecting equipment, recreational games, security software, and document files can be accessed by each user to cut costs. Instead of printing and physically moving a document from one desk to another for review, the second user can access the document online to read it without printing it out, thereby saving ink and paper costs, as well. 4. Space-saving concerns may play a role in deciding to network several computers in a family or at the office. In addition, one administrator can manage all the linked PC’s for uniformity and consistency. If your company or family could benefit from a LAN, why not recommend one today?