LAN stands for local area network. A network is a group of two or more connected computers, and a LAN is a network contained within a small geographic area, usually within the same building. Home Wi-Fi networks and small business networks are common examples of LANs. LANs can also be fairly large, although if they take up multiple buildings, it is usually more accurate to classify them as wide area networks (WAN) or metropolitan area networks (MAN).
The function of Local Area Networks is to link computers together and provide shared access to printers, files, and other services. Local area network architecture is categorized as either peer-to-peer or client-server. On a client-server local area network, multiple client-devices are connected to a central server, in which application access, device access, file storage, and network traffic are managed.
Applications running on the Local Area Network server provide services such as database access, document sharing, email, and printing. Devices on a peer-to-peer local area network share data directly to a switch or router without the use of a central server.
LANs can interconnect with other LANs via leased lines and services, or across the Internet using virtual, private network technologies. This system of connected LANs is classified as a Wide Local Area Network or a metropolitan area network. Local Area and Wide Area Networks differ in their range. An Emulated Local Area Network enables routing and data bridging to an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) network, which facilitates the exchange of Ethernet and token ring network data.
Full independence and local infrastructure. Server is maintained by your system administrator.
Users do not depend on Internet connection, low bandwidth or various malware that can be caught in the public network.
Fast troubleshooting within the local network. For example, if SIP gets disconnected, the administrator can promptly solve this problem with minimal losses.
Reliable security thanks to media streams encryption via SSL. SSL protocol keeps your audio, video and textual data safe using data authentication process.
Highest level of security via AES-256 encryption. Recommended for government and state organizations, and companies that require full security. LAN prevents traffic interception and unauthorized access to the equipment.
Users of different TrueConf Server instances can seamlessly connect with each other over LAN via federation. In this case, you can see presence statuses of other TrueConf users and run video conferences in one private network.
During the pandemic, telemedicine received an impetus to development. With video conferencing, doctors can consult patients remotely, which saves their working time and makes access to medical services safer, since there is no need to visit hospitals.
Many schools and universities switched to distance learning during the pandemic, and videoconferencing made it possible to organize an educational process. So teachers from other cities and countries that do not have the opportunity to conduct classes offline can be involved in lectures.
It is often cheaper for departments to communicate via videoconferencing, and it is also a convenient way to hold meetings. In judicial practice, video conferencing is usually organized with those who are already in places of deprivation of liberty, but must speak at a meeting.
Videoconferencing systems provide quick interaction with partners, accounting, warehouses, and also allow presenting goods to wholesale customers.
Real-time video communication allows technical support to solve problems remotely, and also reduces time for troubleshooting. In addition, during the pandemic, most companies switched to hybrid work, using video conferencing systems when discussing and developing new products.
Videoconferencing saves time for HR managers and candidates, allows you to conduct interviews with many applicants, including those from other regions. Video meetings are also a good means of adaptation and training of new employees.
Gain full control over your communications by deploying TrueConf solutions in your enterprise local or virtual network. With TrueConf you can go completely offline and run video sessions without Internet connection. TrueConf features several protection levels, GDPR and HIPAA compliance, which is crucial for clinical services delivered to patients.
Learn moreThe simplest Internet-connected LANs require only a router and a way for computing devices to connect to the router, such as via Ethernet cables or a Wi-Fi hotspot. LANs without an Internet connection need a switch for exchanging data. Large LANs, such as those in a large office building, may need additional routers or switches to more efficiently forward data to the right devices.
Not all LANs connect to the Internet. In fact, LANs predate the Internet: the first LANs were used in businesses in the late 1970s. (These old LANs used network protocols that are no longer in use today.) The only requirement for setting up a LAN is that the connected devices are able to exchange data. This usually requires a piece of networking equipment for packet switching, such as a network switch. Today, even non-Internet-connected LANs use the same networking protocols that are used on the Internet (such as IP).
In general, there are two types of LANs:
– A client/server LAN consists of several devices (the clients) connected to a central server. The server manages file storage, application access, device access, and network traffic. A client can be any connected device that runs or accesses applications or the Internet. The clients connect to the server either with cables or through wireless connections.
– A peer-to-peer LAN doesn't have a central server and cannot handle heavy workloads like a client/server LAN can, and so they're typically smaller. On a peer-to-peer LAN, each device shares equally in the functioning of the network. The devices share resources and data through wired or wireless connections to a switch or router. Most home networks are peer-to-peer.
A wide area network (WAN) is a series of LANs linked together to form a network in an extended area. WANs are typically operated by telecommunications companies or businesses that need a network comprising multiple remote locations. The Internet itself is a WAN.
Fiber optic cable is the preferred transmission medium for WANs because fiber optic can transmit large amounts of data at high speeds. As is the case with the internet, a WAN can also include metropolitan area networks (MANs).
