Glossary of Data Communications TermsCourtesy Enterprise-Wide Computing, Inc. |
Term:
local area network (LAN)
Definition: A network in which communications are limited to a moderate-sized geographic area such as a single office building, warehouse, or campus, and that do not extend across public rights-of-way. A system that links computers together to form a network, usually with a wiring-based cabling scheme. LANs connect personal computers and electronic office equipment, enabling users to communicate, share resources such as data storage and printers, and access remote hosts or other networks. A computer and communications network which covers a limited geographical area; allows every node to communicate with every other node; and which does not require a central node or processor. |