LAN Network & Wireless Cards Driver Download

To create a LAN, you'll need a router or switch, which will act as the hub of your network. These devices route information to the correct computers. A router will automatically handle assigning IP addresses to each device on the network, and is necessary if you intend to share your internet connection with all the connected devices. A local area network, or LAN, consists of a computer network at a single site, typically an individual office building. A LAN is very useful for sharing resources, such as data storage and printers.

Stands for 'Local Area Network' and is pronounced 'lan.' A LAN is a network of connected devices that exist within a specific location. LANs may be found in homes, offices, educational institution, or other areas.

A LAN may be wired, wireless, or a combination of the two. A standard wired LAN uses Ethernet to connect devices together. Wireless LANs are typically created using a Wi-Fi signal. If a router supports both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections, it can be used to create a LAN with both wired and wireless devices.

Types of LANs

Most residential LANs use a single router to create the network and manage all the connected devices. The router acts as the central connection point and enables devices, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones to communicate with each other. Typically, the router is connected to a cable or DSL modem, which provides Internet access to connected devices.

A computer may also be the central access point of a LAN. In this setup, the computer acts as a server, providing connected machines with access to files and programs located on the server. It also includes LAN software used to manage the network and connected devices. LAN servers are more common in business and educational networks, since the extra capabilities are not required by most home users. In a server-based LAN, devices may connect directly to the server or indirectly via a router or switch.

NOTE: Multiple LANs may be combined to create a larger LAN. This type of network, which can customized to include specific devices from various networks, is called a virtual LAN or VLAN.

Updated: December 29, 2016

The advantages of a LAN are the same as those for any group of devices networked together. The devices can use a single Internet connection, share files with one another, print to shared printers, and be accessed and even controlled by one another.

LANs were developed in the 1960s for use by colleges, universities, and research facilities (such as NASA), primarily to connect computers to other computers. It wasn't until the development of Ethernet technology (1973, at Xerox PARC), its commercialization (1980), and its standardization (1983) that LANs started to be used widely.

Lan Network Diagram

While the benefits of having devices connected to a network have always been well understood, it wasn't until the wide deployment of Wi-Fi technology that LANs became commonplace in nearly every type of environment. Today, not only do businesses and schools use LANs, but also restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and homes. Mgwoem driver download for windows 10.

Mlg Lan Network

Wireless connectivity has also greatly expanded the types of devices that can be connected to a LAN. Now, nearly everything imaginable can be 'connected,' from PCs, printers, and phones to smart TVs, stereos, speakers, lighting, thermostats, window shades, door locks, security cameras--and even coffeemakers, refrigerators, and toys.

LAN Network & Wireless Cards Driver Download