AQA · GCSE · Computer Science
Course version: 8525 · Version from Sept 2020
Fundamentals of computer networks: Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects computers and devices over a limited area such as a single building or school site, so users can share files, printers and an internet connection.
Checked against the AQA 8525 specification (opens in a new tab) on .
- Point 6 of 50
Study notes
From the checked teaching notes for this specification point.
The idea
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects computers and devices over a limited area such as a single building or school site, so users can share files, printers and an internet connection. The hardware is usually owned and managed by one organisation, which controls access and security. A LAN can be wired, using cables and switches, wireless using Wi-Fi, or a mixture of both. Because the area is small, data travels quickly and the owner can manage the network directly. Contrast this with a wide area network, which spans large distances and often uses infrastructure owned by a telecommunications provider. When answering, stress the limited geographical area, single ownership and the sharing of resources, and give a concrete example such as a school's computers linked to shared printers.
What earns the marks
- A LAN covers a limited geographical area such as one building or a school site.
- A LAN allows devices to share resources such as files, printers and an internet connection.
- A LAN is usually owned and managed by a single organisation.
- A LAN can be wired using cables and switches, wireless using Wi-Fi, or a combination of both.
- A suitable example is the computers and printers within a school connected together.
- Because the area is small, data can be transferred quickly and security can be managed by the owner.
Common mistakes and how to put them right
Confusing a LAN with a WAN.
Put it right: A LAN covers a small area such as a building, whereas a WAN spans large geographical distances.
Assuming a LAN must be wired.
Put it right: A LAN can be wireless using Wi-Fi or a mix of wired and wireless.
Forgetting the purpose of sharing resources.
Put it right: A LAN exists so devices can share files, printers and internet access.
Exam tips
- Lead with the limited geographical area, then add the sharing of resources.
- Give a named example such as a school or office to make the answer concrete.
- Mention single ownership or management to distinguish a LAN from a WAN.
Try the lesson
The start of the Fundamentals of computer networks: Local Area Network (LAN) lesson, made from checked teaching notes for this specification point.
Have a go first
A small office connects its computers, printer and file server together on one site so they can share resources. Which type of network does this describe?
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