LAN (Local Area Network)

A local area network is limited to a specific area, such as a home, office, or campus. A home network may have a single router that offers both wired and wireless connections. For example, a computer may connect to the router via Ethernet, while smartphones and tablets connect to the router via Wi-Fi. All devices connected to the router share the same network and often the same Internet connection.

A larger network, such as the network of an educational institution, may be comprised of many switches, hubs, and Ethernet cables. It may also include multiple wireless access points and wireless repeaters that provide wireless access to the network. While this type of network is much more complex than a home network, it is still considered a LAN since it is limited to a specific location.