A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network where the computers are situated closely together, typically in the same building. These networks are called local area networks to tell them apart from global networks like the &link_internet;, where computers can reside anywhere world-wide.

LANs allow several computers to shared data as well as expensive devices such as printers. They normally use special hardware, Network Interface Cards (NICs), for high-speed connections via special network cables.

Use the &link_wpnetgrp; to view all servers that are currently sharing resources on the LAN that you are connected to.

In general, there are two types of computer environment where LAN technology is used.

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