Why LAN Fundamentals Matter
Local Area Networks (LANs) form the foundation of all modern networks. Understanding how devices communicate within a LAN is essential to ensure efficient data exchange, reliable connectivity, and proper network segmentation. A strong grasp of LAN fundamentals is critical for building stable and scalable switched environments.
How LANs Work
In this topic, you’ll explore how LANs operate using Ethernet technology, switches, and MAC addressing. You’ll learn how data is transmitted at Layer 2, how switches make forwarding decisions, and how network topologies affect performance and reliability in a local network.
Building a Reliable LAN
To design effective LANs, you’ll study key concepts such as network media, switch operation, and VLAN segmentation. Together, these elements help reduce broadcast traffic, improve security, and optimize network performance. A solid understanding of LAN fundamentals prepares you for advanced topics like VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, and EtherChannel, before moving on to Spanning Tree Protocol and enterprise network design.