LAN & WAN | CIE IGCSE ICT Revision Notes 2023

LAN

Local Area Networks (LANs) are networks that are usually contained within a single building or small geographical location
A LAN is made up using hubs and/or switches which will connect several devices together
It is common for one hub or switch to be connected to a router which will allow the LAN connectivity to other outside networks such as the internet

Centralised management - A LAN allows centralised management of updates, backups and software installations.
Security - A LAN can secure its devices with the use of firewalls, antivirus software and other security features to prevent unauthorised access
File Sharing and Collaboration - A LAN allows users on the network to share resources such as printers and other peripherals. This also allows the users of the network to collaborate and share files and folders

If hardware fails, the network may not function properly or even at all
Networks are more prone to attacks than standalone computers
Access to data and peripherals can be slow depending on network traffic
Maintenance - LAN networks require maintenance to ensure that software is up to date, upgrades and backups which can be costly

Wireless LANs (WLANs) are Local Area Networks that allow devices to connect wirelessly rather than using physical cables
Wireless Access Points (WAPs) are connected to an existing wired network which provides a means to connect wirelessly
Wireless Access Points use spread spectrum technology that has a range of around 30 to 50 metres compared to Infrared which has a range of around 3 metres
WLANs are often used when it is not practical to use cable or devices that will access the network do not have Ethernet ports
WLANs support a vast range of devices such as smartphones and laptops and are very popular in public areas such as shopping malls

Mobility - WLAN allows users to connect anywhere that is in the range of a Wireless Access Point (WAP) without the need for additional hardware or wiring.
Flexibility - WLANS can be used in a variety of environments both indoors and out making them highly flexible
Scalability - As the requirements change, additional Wireless Access Points can be added relatively easily resulting in additional users being able to use the network or increased network coverage
Wireless devices have access to peripherals such as printers

Coverage - WLANS are limited in their coverage and can be further affected by walls and other structures
Bandwidth - Bandwidth speeds can become an issue in high traffic areas
Interference - WLANs can sustain interference from other devices which can affect performance and connectivity
Security - WLANs can be vulnerable to security threats due to wireless signals being intercepted

Give 2 reasons why a fitness centre may want to install a WLAN

[4]

The fitness centre may wish to install a WLAN for several reasons such as :

Customers can connect to their Wi-Fi and search for information such as class times etc [1]

will improve customer services [1]

Staff at the fitness centre will be able to access resources wirelessly such as printers [1]

allowing them to move freely around the centre [1]