5
Basic Network Configuration
This section covers basic network configuration set up and testing. Also covered are basic concepts and
operations, including the difference between LAN and WAN networks and how IP Addressing is used.
In a networked environment, such as a company, typically there are many computers connected together
using a
router
or a
switch
(for more information, see router or switch in the definitions section). In larger
companies, there may be several different routers distributed in buildings and plant locations. A router allows
any LAN-side computer communicate with computers and devices outside the LAN (local area network).
Routers send data packets from one place to another place on a network. Routers use network addresses to
route packets to the correct destination. For example, in a TCP/IP network, the IP (internet protocol) address
of the network interface is used to direct router destinations.
Because routers help computers inside the LAN “talk” with computers outside of the LAN. The security of a
company’s LAN may be compromised by gaps of open ports in the router. Security measures may have been
instituted to compensate for these vulnerabilities. Consult your network administrator to learn about the
security measures taken to protect your network. VPN, or virtual private network, is one such security mea-
sure to protect the intelligence of the LAN. A computer outside the LAN must have an address or key known
by the VPN to allow access to the LAN. Many companies use a VPN to connect two different LANs, thus
allowing the transfer of data between the two networks.
LAN (local area network) vs WAN (wide area network)
Local Area Network
Simply put, a LAN is a computer network that connects a relatively small area (a single building or group of
buildings). Most LANs connect workstations and computers to each other. Each computer (also known as a
“node”), has its own processing unit and executes its own programs; however, it can also access data and
devices anywhere on the LAN. This means that many users can access and share the same information and
devices. A good example of a LAN device is a network printer. Most companies cannot afford the budgetary
or hardware expense of providing printers for each of its users. Therefore, one printer (i.e., device) is placed
on the LAN where every user can access the same printer.
The LAN uses IP addresses to route data to different destinations on the network. An IP Address is a 32-bit
numeric address written as four numbers separated by periods (For example, 1.160.10.240.
Note
: For more information on IP Addresses, see your local network administrator.
Figure 1. Local Area Network Diagram
