Local area network

The main characteristics of the local network are:

• The division of resources. LAN provides collective use (separation between multiple users) of various peripheral devices: laser printers, plotters, etc.
• The division of data. LAN provides the collective use of common databases.
• The division of software tools. LAN provides collective use of common programmes.
• E-mail. LAN provides for the exchange of information between AbS network.

There are a variety of LAN, which can be converted into Several groups, according to the following criteria:

• way of organizing: the real (and peer with the central rule), artificial;
• Availability wire connections: wireless wired;
• topology:
• Star
• Bus
• ring;
• Technology:
• Ethernet
• Token Ring
• Arcnet
• FDDI.

By way of organizing the local network are divided into real and artificial. Real are divided into peer networks and with the central administration. More details will be described in the 2 - om matter.

Artificial networks allow computers linked together through serial or parallel ports and do not need special network adapters. Sometimes the link in the network communications called for a zero-modem (Not used a modem) or through a zero-slot (since no slot machines not busy NIC). Sami network of networks called for a zero-modem or zero-slot. The network on a zero-slot provides the same opportunities as other local area networks, but it is very slow. Artificial network perekachat used when necessary information from one computer to another. MS DOS 6.0 and 6.2 are fitted with the program INTER LINK, which offers the possibility of such a transfer. However, this program works simultaneously with only two computers and can not connect three or more machines. If necessary, it requires special software Ensuring Laplink.

The largest spread in our time have been wired network adapters. They will be further examined in more detail. However, more promising wireless local networks. In doing so, used infrared rays (waves in the infrared) with small distance AbS between waves and radio frequencies for regional and global networks. Soon Cellular modems (wireless) telephones and portable computers meals from batteries can serve as a basis for creating virtual networks, which users can move in space, without losing communication with each other. In our time, virtual network is very expensive pleasure. However, in the future this type of networks should be widely spread.