Advantages and Disadvantages of LAN (Local Area Network)
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects computers and devices within a small geographical area, such as an office or home. It offers high-speed connectivity, centralized resource sharing, and cost-effective networking. However, LANs have limitations, such as limited coverage, network complexity, and potential security risks. In this page, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of LAN, helping you understand how it can be utilized effectively for your needs.
What is LAN ?
The set of computers or devices connected together with the ability to exchange data is known as computer network. The networking are of two types viz. wired networking and wireless networking. The LAN is an interconnection of small devices covering shorter distances or area. It is used in home offices or schools to share common resources such as printers, internet, memory etc. Moreover it is used for chatting between PC users using LAN based applications.
In basic LAN (Local Area Network), computers are connected by ethernet cables using router or hub. There are two basic types of LAN viz. wired LAN and Wireless LAN. Wired LAN uses 100BASE-T and 1000BASE-T standards. Wireless LAN uses radio frequency for transmission and covers larger distances beyond walls and floors and uses IEEE 802.11 standards for implementation. Based on distance covered, the computer networks are divided into three main parts viz. LAN, MAN and WAN. Among these types, LAN has lowest coverage upto 2 miles(or 2500 meters) and data rates (10/100/1000 Mbps). Refer difference between LAN vs WAN vs MAN>>.
LAN can be formed using just two computers connected together using network card or multiple computers connected using Hub/Router. There may be file server on the LAN used for sharing of files and folders among LAN users.
Advantages of LAN (Local Area Network)
Following are the benefits of LAN :
1. The basic LAN implementation does not cost too much.
2. It is easy to control and manage the entire LAN as it is available
in one small region.
3. The LAN configuration is very easy due to availability of required protocols in the
Operating System (OS) itself.
4. The systems or devices connected on LAN communicates at very high speed depending
upon LAN type and ethernet cables supported. The common speeds supported are 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps and 1000 Mbps.
Gigabit ethernet versions are evolving very fast. Cheaper versions will be available
once the technology matures and mass production has been carried out.
5. With the help of file servers connected on the LAN, sharing of files and folders among
peers will become very easy and efficient.
6. It is easy to setup security protocols to protect the LAN users from intruders or hackers.
7. It is easy to share common resources such as printers and internet line among
multiple LAN users.
8. LAN users do not require their own harddisk and CD-ROM drives.
They can save their work centrally on network file server.
9. Application softwares such as MS Office, Anti-Virus, Adobe reader are
stored at one system and are shared for all the LAN users.
This helps them install application softwares by click of a mouse.
Disadvantages of LAN (Local Area Network)
Following are the drawbacks of LAN :
1. LAN covers small geographical area.
2. Security issues are big concern as it is easy to have
access to programs and data of peers. Special security measures
are needed to stop unauthorized access.
3. It is difficult to setup and maintain LAN and
requires skilled technicians and network administrators.
4. In the server based LAN architecture, if server
develops some fault, all the users are affected. LANs are vulnerable to hardware failures,
software issues, or network overloads, which can cause downtime. In a centralized system,
network failures can disrupt the entire organization until resolved.
5. Appearance of virus in one system can spread very fast to
all the LAN users very easily.
Conclusion
A Local Area Network (LAN) offers significant advantages in terms of speed, cost-effectiveness, and
centralized data management, making it ideal for homes, businesses, and educational institutions.
However, it also comes with limitations, such as limited coverage, network complexity, and potential
security risks.
➨Also refer advantages and disadvantages of
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)>> and
WAN (Wide Area Network)>>.
FAQs on LAN : Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Interview
Question-1 : What is a LAN (Local Area Network)?
Answer-1 : A LAN is a computer network that connects devices within a small geographical area, like an office, home, or school, allowing for resource sharing and communication.
Question-2 : What are the advantages of LAN?
Answer-2 : LANs offer fast data transfer, resource sharing, cost-effectiveness, and centralized data management, making them ideal for small-scale environments.
Question-3 : How does LAN differ from WAN?
Answer-3 : LAN covers a small area like a building, while WAN connects networks over larger distances, such as cities or even countries, using different technologies.
Question-4 : What are the security risks of LAN?
Answer-4 : While LANs can be secured, they are vulnerable to internal threats from users and external attacks if proper security measures like firewalls and encryption aren’t in place.
Question-5 : What is the typical data transfer speed in a LAN?
Answer-5 : LANs typically offer data transfer speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps, depending on the network's setup and hardware used.
Question-6 : What are the disadvantages of LAN?
Answer-6 : LAN offers limited range, making them less effective for larger areas compared to WANs. They can also be vulnerable to internal security
threats, necessitating strong security measures. Additionally, initial setup and maintenance costs can be significant, and managing a LAN often
requires specialized technical expertise to address potential performance issues.