Local Area Network (LAN) Hardware Key Terms

Make the right network connections with LAN hardware terminology

Setting up a LAN, or local area network, is fairly easy. There will be some challenges in choosing types of security protocols, finding good installation areas and dealing with software requirements. On the hardware side, though, it's basically a matter of selecting quality pieces from the list below. Take a look at the basic key terms for the gear you need, and make sure all of them are compatible for the best chance at designing a functioning commercial LAN environment for a business.

Modem

The modem is the key to a LAN; it is the device that brings in the broadband signal to be distributed to a network. A modem can be bought or rented depending on what kind of LAN setup and time period a manager is dealing with. Big providers like Comcast will rent modems as part of an overall package.

Router

In a LAN, the router is the "distributor" of the signal. A wired router disperses the signal through cable. A wireless router sends it over the air. The router generally includes WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) or WPA (Wifi Protected Access) encryption and security protocols, which are important for protecting business data shared over the network.

Network interface card

A network interface card, or NIC, is a piece of hardware that connects a computer to a LAN network. If a computer has an internal card, no installation is required. If not, buyers can purchase a plug-in network card to connect a computer to a LAN.

USB

USB (universal serial bus) is a type of connectivity that offers multiple possibilities for getting computers connected to networks. Businesses can find wireless cards with USB connectivity to make getting connected a simple matter of plugging in.

LAN hub

The LAN hub is a component that connects all of the computers to the router. LAN hubs are available in various styles and promote connectivity in different ways.

Cat5 cable

Along with all of the above devices, there is one more important LAN hardware component, cable. The cabling used for LAN connections must meet certain qualification for carrying data at speed. Cat5 cable is the current standard for LAN options.

Copyright © 2013 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---