D-Link DI-704UP manual Introduction to Local Area Networking

Introduction to Local Area Networking

A Local Area Network (LAN) is typically an Ethernet-based network that con- nects several computers together over a small area such as a building or group of buildings. LAN’s can also be connected over large areas. A collection of LANs connected over a large area is called a Wide Area Network (WAN).

There are many types of media that can connect computers together. The most common media is CAT5 cable; UTP or STP twisted pair wire. Each computer must have a Network Interface Card (NIC), which transfers the data between computers. A NIC is usually a 10/100Mbps Fast Ethernet adapter.

Most networks use hardware devices such as hubs or switches to transfer data between computers. A hub receives data arriving through each port and forwards the data to all other ports. A switch is more sophisticated, in that a switch can determine the port (or corresponding computer) that each packet of data is supposed to be delivered to. A switch minimizes network traffic and speeds up communication over a network.

There are many types of scenarios to consider which could affect the operabil- ity of a network. Some of these issues are discussed in the manual under the

Networking Basics section.

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