LAN Extender

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A LAN extender forwards traffic between LANs transparent to higher network-layer protocols over distances that far exceed the limitations of standard Ethernet. A LAN, or Local Area Network, is a high-speed data network (usually employing Ethernet technology) to connect computer workstations, printers, servers, and other devices. The Ethernet LAN typically serves computer users within a single organization to provide mutual access and file sharing for all the networked computing devices.

In addition to the devices the LAN connects, additional devices are commonly employed to increase the overall efficiency, reach and range of the Ethernet network. Such devices include LAN extenders, repeaters, hubs, bridges, switches and routers. While such devices all provide similar services, each provides a selected feature set to address a specific issue or problem facing network administrators.

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