Devices connected
together over a small
geographical area.
Connection methods
WiFi
Wireless Fidelity. A
wireless method of
connecting to a LAN.
WiFi has a longer range in
comparison to
Ethernet.
...because the signal can be
boosted with a WiFi range
extender.
WiFi has slower data
transfer speeds in
comparison to Ethernet
...because physical
obstructions, such as
walls, interfere with the
radio waves.
Ethernet
A protocol (set of rules) that governs
how data is sent between connected
devices.
Ethernet has a smaller
range in comparison to
WiFi
...because the range is
limited by the length of the
cable.
Ethernet has faster
data transfer speeds in
comparison to WiFi.
...because the data does
not get obstructed by
barriers as it travels
directly down the cable to
its destination.
Hardware
Router
Enables a LAN to connect
to a WAN (e.g. the
Internet.) and enables
devices to communicate
with each other in a LAN.
NIC (Network Interface Card)
Installed in a device, such as a PC, to enable it to
connect to a network by providing a means of
communication between the device and the network
devices (e.g. a router or switch).
Switch
Facilitates (Enables)
communication between multiple
devices in a LAN by directing data to the correct device.
WAP (Wireless Access Point)
Enables WiFi devices to
connect to wired networks.
Ethernet cable
Cable used to connect
devices in a LAN
together.
Enables devices to share data.
Enables peripherals, such as printers,
to be shared between devices.
Enables users to communicate via
email (electronic mail).