lähiverkosta

Lähiverkko, which translates to Local Area Network (LAN) in English, is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited geographical area such as a residence, school, laboratory, university campus, or office building. This limited geographical scope is the defining characteristic of a LAN, differentiating it from Wide Area Networks (WANs) which span larger regions.

LANs are typically privately owned and managed by the organization or individual that uses them. They enable devices to share resources, such as printers, internet connections, and data storage, among themselves. Common technologies used to implement LANs include Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Ethernet uses physical cables to connect devices, offering high speed and reliability. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, uses radio waves to create wireless connections, providing flexibility and mobility.

The primary advantages of a LAN include resource sharing, which reduces costs and increases efficiency, and improved communication between connected users. Data transfer speeds within a LAN are generally much higher than those over WANs, as the distances involved are shorter and the infrastructure is more controlled. This makes LANs ideal for fast data exchange and local operations.