local area network

n : a local network for inter-computer communication; especially

a network connecting computers and word processors and

other electronic office equipment to create an

inter-office system [syn: {LAN}]

local area network

(LAN) A data communications network which is

geographically limited (typically to a 1 km radius) allowing

easy interconnection of terminals, {microprocessor}s and

computers within adjacent buildings. {Ethernet} and {FDDI}

are examples of standard LANs.

Because the network is known to cover only a small area,

optimisations can be made in the network signal protocols that

permit data rates up to 100Mb/s.

See also {token ring}, {wide area network}, {metropolitan area

network}..

{Usenet} newsgroup: {news:comp.dcom.lans.misc}.

(1995-03-13)