LAN & WAN (OCR A Level Computer Science): Revision Note
Exam code: H446
LAN & WAN
What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?
LANs are networks that are contained within a small geographical location
Typically, all the hardware used to make a LAN is owned by a single entity
This makes them more secure than WANs, which have connections owned by third-party companies
A LAN is a network that is built using hubs and/or switches that connect several devices
It is common for one hub or switch to be connected to a router, which will allow the LAN to connect to other networks, such as the Internet
A LAN can offer many advantages, such as:
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. Users of the network can also collaborate and share files and folders
Disadvantages of a LAN include:
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 when compared to locally stored data and locally connected peripherals
Maintenance - LAN networks require maintenance to ensure that software is up to date. Upgrades and backups can be costly
What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
WANs are collections of LANs spread over a large geographical area
E.g. a company may connect two LANs between two cities to create a WAN
The individual LANs are usually connected via third-party connections
e.g. leased lines from ISPs or Telecommunications companies
Worked Example
The internet can be considered an example of a WAN.
Describe what is meant by the term ‘WAN’.
2 marks
How to answer this question:
For 2 marks, you need to make 2 points about what a WAN is
Since the question uses WAN as an acronym, it is a good idea to show you know what WAN stands for
Answer:
Example answer that would get full marks:
A WAN (short for Wide Area Network) is a network spread over a large geographical area such as a country.
Worked Example
A coffee company has coffee shops located across the country. Each shop has its own Local Area Network (LAN)
The company wants to connect the shops in a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Describe two characteristics of a LAN.
2 marks
How to answer this question:
You need to make 2 points about how a LAN is different from a WAN:
LANs cover a small geographical area
The hardware that makes up the LAN is typically owned by one company
For this reason, a LAN is considered to be more secure than a WAN
Answer:
Example answer that would get full marks:
LANs are considered more secure than WANs since the LAN's connections are owned by the organisation that owns the LAN.
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