An Introduction to Ethernet and LAN and WAN Networks - By: Expo09

Ethernet and LAN

Ethernet is a computer networking technology that typically connects LAN networks. LAN stands for Local Area Network, and refers to any computer network that involves more than one computer.

Examples of LAN Networks

An office where all the computers are connected to one another is a LAN network. Computers can all share hard drive’s allowing all users to gain access to the same files. They can also all be connected to the same scanners and printers meaning individual ones are not required for each individual. In the case of offices LAN networks can be extremely cost affective. Schools, colleges and universities also regularly use LAN’s for many of the same reasons. It means each individual work station can be used by anyone with access rights, therefore meaning that one computer per student is not necessary as they will not all be using them at the same time. Other institutions such as airports also make use of Local Area Networks. In this case it means the same information can be accessed from any computer, for example from all check-in desks.

Introduction to Ethernet

LAN networks are usually connected using Ethernet cables. Ethernet is a system of cables used to connect networks. It was invested by Bob Metcalfe and has been around since 1973 in one form or another. It is by far the most widely used standard used to connect LAN networks. There are other alternatives but Ethernet is the clear leader in terms of popularity.

Ethernet Cards

We are now in the times of the wireless network, meaning that in many cases large numbers of cables are not necessary. LAN connections and internet connection can often be achieved using wireless systems now. This means it is possible to gain access to the network anywhere within a certain area, depending on the reach of the wireless network. This means users can be more mobile and don’t have to be sitting at their desk in the same place all of the time with a cable plugged in. In the case of internet access this means users can move around the office or their home (or even garden) while still gaining access to it. For wireless networks, Ethernet cards are often used. These essentially do the same job as an Ethernet cable but without the necessity or the constraints of the cables.

WAN Networks

WAN stands for Wide Area Networks, which are networks that stretch over a much wider area than LAN’s, sometimes connecting systems throughout the world. The internet is an example of a WAN. The Ethernet standard is now also used for WAN’s in much the same way as for LAN’s. Airline systems that are used in airports around the world are a good example of a Wide Area Network.

Fast Ethernet

Fast Ethernet is simply a faster version of regular Ethernet. Whereas regular Ethernet carries traffic at a rate of 10Mbit/s, Fast Ethernet carries traffic ten times faster at 100Mbit/s.

Andrew Marshall (c)

About the Author

Interoute offers Fast Ethernet Services to meet all WAN requirements.

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