- BEYOND THE PC -

Below is an example of a full-version Local Area Network.  Users connect to each other and assets on the network through a HUB (shown below as a "Visage 26 Standalone").

Local Area Networks (LANS) and Wide Area Networks (WANS) are, simply, interconnections between an office workstation and other workstations in the same office or remote company office locations.  This capability is established locally by connecting all PC's in an office via a "network" card in individual workstations through network (Ethernet) cables to a network "HUB" (intelligent switching box).  Also connected to the HUB is a sophisticated computer called a "Server" which (as appropriate) allows all workstations to interact  simultaneously with common "Business Applications Programs".  Remotely, this LAN is connected via telecommunications media to other company office `servers'  (and LAN's) which allows (controlled) interaction with other company counterparts.

For networks to function at all (after hardware and cabling are installed), network software programs are necessary to make the thing work!  A simple LAN can function well with the network software provided by Windows 95, 98, ME or XP.  More sophisticates networks need programs like Windows NT or 2000, or Novell, to operate properly.

To learn how to set up your own LAN at home or in your personal business, go to "Your LAN" above.