The term "local-area network" (or LAN) describes a group of computers connected by usually no more than 1,000 feet of cable that allows these computers to share data. LANs can be created using different types of cables, configurations, and protocols, and still remain within the requirements of a network system specification.

Networks consist of four basic components:

• Network Operating System (NOS). The NOS consists of several computer programs that run in the networked computers. Some of these computers share files, printers, and other peripherals over a network and are called servers. Other computers that use these shared resources are called clients.
• Network Peripherals. Printers and scanners with their own network connections are examples of network peripherals. These components use specialized processors to operate networking server software without having to be connected to a computer.
• Network Interface Card (NIC). NICs are also called LAN adapters. NICs...