3. Local Area Network

When the computers are fairly close to one another say, in a single office or two buildings that are separated by a road, they can be joined together either by cables or wireless means.

These computers then form a Local Area Network (LAN).

Once the computers are connected together into a LAN, many people (users) can share and use the same resources at the same time. They can share files, software, hard disks and peripherals such as a printer or CD-ROM. Users can also use the LAN to communicate with each other by e-mail. Data can be transmitted very quickly between networked computers.

A file server is often used to store each person's data files. This means that people can log onto any machine on the network and access their files. They are not restricted to just one machine. Another advantage of having all of the files stored in one place is that a back up copy of every users files can be made easily.

To log onto a LAN, you usually need a user name and password. The user name identifies you to the file server so that it can 'serve' you the correct files. The password ensures that the user name really does belong to you.

How can you tell whether a computer is networked to other computers?

• Usually a networked computer will allow you to send messages to a friend who is working on another computer.
• You will probably see messages telling you that you are entering a networked system when you logon.
• Sometimes you will have the choice to use a selection of printers.
• If you have a file server you are also likely to have some space on the server's disk reserved for you to save your work.