ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF (LAN)

ADVANTAGES OF LAN

• Files can be stored on a central computer (the file server) allowing data to be shared throughout an organisation.
• Files can be backed up more easily when they are all on a central fileserver rather than when they are scattered across a number of independent workstations.
• Networks also allow security to be established, ensuring that the network users may only have access to certain files and applications.
• Software and resources can be centrally managed.
• Network versions of software often allow for their speedy installation on workstations from the file server.
• Expensive devices such as laser printers or scanners can be shared.
• Users can access their files from any workstation

DISADVANTAGES OF LAN

• Power - a good LAN is required to be on all the times.
• Security - each computer and device become another point of entry for undesirables.
• Upkeep - when things go wrong or the software gets updated.
• Frustration if having a problem setting up.
• A lot of times a network shares one Internet connection - if all computers running at once, can reduce speed for each.
• Area covered is limited.