网络由两台或多台计算机组成，这些计算机相互连接以共享包括通信在内的所有形式的资源。
LAN 和 WLAN 网络是相互关联的，而且还具有共同的特征。
让我们讨论一下 LAN 和 WLAN：
| LAN | WLAN |
|---|---|
| LAN stands for Local Area Network. | WLAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network. |
| LAN connections include both wired and wireless connections. | WLAN connections are completely wireless. |
| LAN network is a collection of computers or other such network devices in a particular location that are connected together by communication elements or network elements. | WLAN network is a collection of computers or other such network devices in a particular location that are connected together wirelessly by communication elements or network elements. |
| LAN is free from external attacks like interruption of signals, cyber criminal attacks and so on. | Whereas, WLAN is vulnerable to external attacks. |
| LAN in secure. | WLAN is not secure. |
| LAN network has lost its popularity due to the arrival of latest wireless networks. | WLAN is popular. |
| Wired LAN needs physical access like connecting the wires to the switches or routers. | Work on connecting wires to the switches and routers are neglected. |
| In LAN, devices are connected locally with Ethernet cable. | For WLAN Ethernet cable is not necessary. |
| Mobility limited. | Outstanding mobility. |
| It may or may not vary with external factors like environment and quality of cables. | It varies due to external factors like environment and quality of cables. Most of the external factors affect the signal transmission. |
| LAN is less expensive. | WLAN is more expensive. |
| Example: Computers connected in a college. | Example: Laptops, cellphones, tablets connected to a wireless router or hotspot. |