Local area network (LAN) is a high-speed communications system that links independent computers and other data processing devices within a confined geographic area. It not only establishes communication between computers, but also enables users to share vital information and expensive computing resources, which enormously increases their usefulness and productivity, such that the relationship is synergetic.

This study will cover the different types of LANs: from the almost ubiquitous Ethernet and its various types, such as Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet and the Token Ring, to other switched and high-speed LANs such as Copper Distributed Data Interface (CDCI), Fiber Distributed Interface (FDDI), and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM).

It will consider the Apple Talk network system used in most Macintosh computers and the Wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) for mobile systems. Their relative advantages and benefits, market size, manufacturers and vendors in the global marketplace will all feature in this study.