Networks : LANs and WANs

Computer networks are usually put into one of two classes depending on how large an area the network covers. The two types of network are :

  1. Local Area Network (LAN ) : A network which covers a small area such as an office or school.
  2. Wide Area Network ( WAN) : A network which connects together computers in a large area or on a number of sites.
Examples of LANs Examples of WANs
A typical school computer network. The Internet.
A network of computers used to share book information within a library. A network of bank cash dispensers.
A ticket booking system used by a chain of high street travel agents.
Properties of LANs Properties of WANs
Covers a small area, usually just one site. Covers a large area, often linking together several sites.
Computers connected by NIC and cables. Computers connected by modems and telephone lines, ISDN, broadband or similar.
Fast transmission of data. Slow transmission of data.

GCSE ICT Companion 04 - (C) P Meakin 2004