Local Area Networks

Wayne C. Summers, Columbus State University

Introduction to Local Area Networks

Why Do We Want to Network Computers?

Types of LANs

Difference between LANs and WANs

LAN Topology

LAN Architecture

LAN Hardware and Media

Copper Wire

Fiber Wire

Wireless

Hardware Devices

LAN Software

Role and Applications of LANs in the Internet, Intranet, Extranet, and E-Commerce Worlds

Wireless Local Area Networks

LAN Installation

Needs Analysis

Site Analysis

Equipment Selection

Site Design

Server Configuration

Installation Schedule

Installation

LAN Administration

Configuration List

System Log

Training

Backup

Security

LAN Security

Physical Security

Access Security

Data Security

Network Security

Malware

Policy, Procedures, and Awareness

Conclusion

Glossary

Cross References

References

INTRODUCTION TO LOCAL AREA NETWORKS

A network is a collection of two or more devices linked together. Typically the connection is a physical connection using wires or cables, although wireless connections are also possible for networks. In addition to the hardware required for this connection, there is communication software necessary to allow the communications to occur. Networks facilitate the sharing of resources, including hardware, software, and data, as well as providing a mechanism for enhancing communications between computers and users of computers.

Networks can be primarily classified as local area networks and wide area networks (WANs). The main distinction between these classifications of ...

Get Handbook of Information Security, Volume 1, Key Concepts, Infrastructure, Standards, and Protocols now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.