59. OCR A Level (H046-H446) SLR11 - 1.3 LANs & WANs

Summary

This video is part two of a three-part series on internet structure, focusing on Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs). It explains that LANs cover small geographical areas, typically within a single site, and are usually owned and controlled by the organization using them. WANs, on the other hand, cover larger geographical areas and connect multiple LANs over vast distances. The video also highlights the different technologies used to connect these networks, such as UTP cables, fiber optics, and Wi-Fi for LANs, and satellite links and telephone lines for WANs.

Takeaways

• 😀 A LAN (Local Area Network) covers a small geographical area, typically on a single site.
• 😀 A WAN (Wide Area Network) covers a large geographical area and connects multiple LANs in different locations.
• 😀 LAN hardware is typically owned and controlled by the organization using it.
• 😀 WAN infrastructure is often leased from telecommunication companies who own and manage it.
• 😀 LANs are commonly connected using UTP cables, fiber optics, and Wi-Fi.
• 😀 WANs are typically connected via telephone lines, fiber optic cables, and satellite links.
• 😀 Your home network, including all connected devices, is an example of a LAN.
• 😀 WANs can be made by connecting multiple LANs that are physically located in different areas.
• 😀 The main difference between a LAN and a WAN is the geographical area they cover.
• 😀 Understanding the differences between LANs and WANs is important for your exam preparation.

Q & A

What are the two main types of networks discussed in this video?

The two main types of networks discussed are Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN).

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A Local Area Network (LAN) is any network that covers a small geographical area, typically located on a single site, and is usually owned and controlled by the organization using it.

What types of hardware are typically used to connect a LAN?

LANs are typically connected using UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cables, fiber optic cables, and Wi-Fi.

Can you give an example of a LAN?

An example of a LAN is a home network, which includes all the devices within a home that are connected to each other.

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that covers a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs physically located in different areas.

Who typically manages the infrastructure that connects LANs to form a WAN?

The infrastructure that connects LANs to form a WAN is typically leased from telecommunication companies, who own and manage it.

What types of connections are typically used to link WANs?

WANs are typically connected using telephone lines, fiber optic cables, and satellite links.

How does the geographical area covered by a LAN differ from that of a WAN?

A LAN covers a small geographical area, usually on a single site, while a WAN covers a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs across different locations.

What is the primary difference between a LAN and a WAN?

The primary difference between a LAN and a WAN is the geographical area they cover. A LAN is confined to a small area, while a WAN spans a much larger area, often across cities or countries.

What role do telecommunication companies play in WANs?

Telecommunication companies provide and manage the infrastructure that connects LANs to form a WAN, typically leasing it to organizations.