Large area networks (LAN's) enable computing devices within the same local area, such as the same building or physical structure, to share information. Most LANs do not require use of common telecommunications carriers. Given their limited reach in terms of physical distance, most LAN wiring is done either internally by organizations or by local wiring contractors.

Usually e-Commerce architects don't have to worry about LANs. Most organizations have already installed them. They have interconnected their LANs to a wide area network (WAN), and the WAN to the Internet.
LAN vendors/tools

New companies, or new locations, however, will need LAN installation. Remember most e-Commerce solutions that involve internal corporate users will usually traverse over LANs. LANs must be considered as an element in the solution.

Consider the possible role of LANs in bandwidth problems.
Often slow response signals a network bandwidth problem, and technically LANs are part of the network. Many companies take their LANs for granted and don't always do the performance tuning required to keep their LANs operating at peak efficiency. When trying to solve a bandwidth problem for e-Commerce solutions that involve internal users, don't forget to check the LAN. It could be the source of your bottleneck. In e-Commerce solutions bandwidth is not always the issue. Sometimes, server processing is slow, especially where there are distributed transactions occurring in the background.

Verify your understanding of the concepts we have covered with a Project Planning - Quiz.
This quiz will provide you with valuable practice prior to taking the end of course test. Project Planning - Quiz