What is a LAN?

A local area network (LAN) connects devices within a limited area such as a home, school, or office building.

What is a LAN?

A local area network (LAN) is a network that connects devices within a limited geographical area, such as a home, office, or campus. LANs allow connected devices to share resources and communicate with each other.

LAN vs. WAN

A LAN covers a small area (a building or campus), while a WAN (wide area network) spans large geographical distances, potentially connecting LANs across cities or countries. The Internet itself is the largest WAN.

Common LAN technologies

  • Ethernet: The most common wired LAN technology, using cables and switches
  • Wi-Fi: Wireless LAN technology based on IEEE 802.11 standards
  • VLAN: Virtual LANs that segment a physical LAN into multiple logical networks