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Whether you're a home based user looking to connect several machines for printer and file sharing, or a business professional looking to establish connections between employees (even at multiple locations) following proper Chicago computer networking principles can help you arrive at a solution. On a larger scale, these networks can be used to comprise a wide area network (WAN) which encompasses a larger geographical space. At a local level a local area network or (LAN) can be used to connect computers and devices that are in the same physical location. This guide establishes the core principles behind LAN technology to help users better understand the networking process.

The Scope of Local Computer Networks

Connecting to other computer users through a network can allow individuals to gain access to a wide variety of collaborative opportunities ranging from file sharing to gaming and real time communications. LANs can be protected using firewalls which will limit the users that are authorized to enter your network from outside of the building.

The implementation of the LAN can vary greatly depending on the scope of the service. Often the devices on the LAN are connected via a wireless or wired connection to a single point such as a network switch. Importantly, companies and households are allowed to set individual computer level access to the network, ensuring that users only have access to the files and applications intended for their user. These features are very helpful limiting access to confidential data or keeping children off of the Internet when un-supervised.

An internal network, or intranet, is usually in the form of portal based communication software which allows users to access a series of shared applications. Internet access can be limited to keep employees or children off of websites that are not business related or appropriate.

Proper Implementation for a Local Area Network

On your LAN you can easily setup shared services such as file and print sharing. Most commonly offices are connected remotely through wireless access, although a network can also be hard wired through Ethernet cables. Due to advances in wireless technology and security, many companies choose wireless over wired applications.

Computers that are authorized on the network transparently log into a shared router. The shared router is password protected and all access that does not include the key is denied. Most networks offer a shared repository of files and data that can be easily shared with many users. Each individual folder can be shared only with the people that require access to perform their job duties. Network administrators can connect even to users outside of the building to troubleshoot problems and keep your technology running smootly.