LAN

See also: Network | WAN

Acronym: Local Area Network

A term originally used for offices that wanted to network their computers. With the advent of the Internet, it refers to a definable area in your immediate vicinity, usually all connected to the same T1 line.

Because they are closer together and usually connected by faster equipment, LAN connections are almost always faster and have a smaller ping than Internet connections. LAN Parties exist for this reason instead of simply staying at home and playing remotely.

Filesharing on a LAN

While few File sharing tools truly take advantage of a LAN connection, Internet File Sharing is very rarely faster than any LAN. While most Filesharing connections on a DSL or Cable connection will reach a maximum of around 50k per second, even a slow computer on a LAN with low-end routers or hubs are at least ten times faster.

To enable file sharing between two computers on a LAN connection, check the networking options in your OS or simply start up an instant messaging tool with file-send capabilities. FTP Clients and servers are also great.

Other variations on LAN

  • Offices in remote locations connected together – sometimes by VPN – is a WAN, or Wide Area Network.
  • Homes in a subdivision connected by wireless service is a NAN, or Neighborhood Area Network.

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