LAN (Local Area Network)

TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) is a group of protocols that manage computer data communication on the Internet. Computers connected to the Internet to communicate with TCP / IP, because it uses the same language differences in the type of computer and operating system is not a problem. PC computer with Windows operating system can communicate with Macintosh computers or with a Sun SPARC running Solaris. So, if a computer using TCP / IP and is connected directly to the internet, the computer can be connected to any computer in the world that is also connected to the internet.
The characteristics of computer networks:
1. sharing hardware (hardware).
2. sharing software (software).
3. shared communication channels (internet).
4. share data easily.
5. facilitates communication between network users.

Local Area Network (LAN) is the number of computers connected together in one particular area that is not so widespread, such as in an office or building. Broadly speaking there are two types of network or LAN, peer to peer networks and client-server networks. In a peer to peer network, each computer connected to the network can act both as a workstation or server. While in Client-Server network, only one computer serving as servers and other computers acting as workstations. Between the two types of networks each have advantages and disadvantages, where each will be explained.
LAN is composed of several basic elements that include hardware and software components, ie
1. physical components
Personal Computer (PC), Network Interface Card (NIC), cable, network topology.
2. software components
Network Operating Systems, Network Adapter Driver, Network Protocols.