Basic Network Configuration; Lan (Local Area Network) Vs. Wan (Wide Area Network); Local Area Network - RTS Cronus Manual

APPENDIX A

Basic Network Configuration

Basic Network Configuration
This section covers basic network configuration setup and testing. Basic concepts and operations, including the difference
between LAN and WAN networks and how IP Addressing is used is covered.
Typically, there are many computers connected together using a router or a switch in a networked environment, such as a
company. In larger companies, there may be several different routers distributed in buildings and plant locations. A router
allows any LAN-side computer to communicate with other computers and devices outside the LAN (Local Area Network).
Routers send data packets from one place to another place on a network. routers use network addresses to route packets to the
correct destination. For example, in a TCP/IP network, the IP (Internet Protocol) Address of the network interface is used to
direct router destinations.
Because routers help computers inside the LAN "talk" with computers outside of the LAN, the security of a company's LAN
may be compromised by gaps of open ports in the router. Security measures may have been instituted to compensate for these
vulnerabilities. Consult you network administrator to learn about the security measures taken to protect your network. VPN
(Virtual Private Network) is one such security measure to protect the intelligence of the LAN. A computer outside the LAN
must have an address or key known by the VPN to allow access to the LAN. Many companies use a VPN to connect two (2)
different LANs, thus allowing the transfer of data between two networks.

LAN (Local Area Network) vs. WAN (Wide Area Network)

Local Area Network

Simply put, a LAN is a computer network that connects a relatively small area (a single building or group of buildings). Most
LANs connect workstations and computers to each other. Each computer, also known as a node, has its own processing unit
and executes its own programs; however, it can also access data and devices anywhere on the LAN. This means many users
can access and share the same information and devices. A good example of a LAN device is a network printer. Most
companies cannot afford the budgetary or hardware expense of providing printers for each of its users; therefore, one printer
(or device) is placed on the LAN where every user can access the same printer.
The LAN uses IP Addresses to route data to different destinations on the network. An IP Address is a 32-bit numeric address
consisting of four (4) numbers separated by periods (for example, 1.160.10.240).
NOTE: For more information on IP Addresses, see you local network administrator.
Technical Manual
Bosch Security Systems, Inc. F.01U.118.890 Rev. 23