A LAN-aware program is an application that is specifically modified in order to be able to function using a LAN or local area network environment. This type of program is usually stored on a file server. It can take the shape of many different applications, but common ones include transactional application programs – such as invoice-processing or database management software.
Technipages Explains LAN-Aware Program
Database management software doesn’t have to be LAN-aware, but some of the functionality we are now used to is specific to LAN-versions. The main function here is the creation and maintenance of shared files. That means that files that are stored in one location can be shared by different people, even if they are not the creators or directly located at the machine or server where the file is stored.
A LAN-ignorant program wouldn’t allow file sharing nor would it support the concurrency control that is necessary to be able to manage multiple copies of the same file. LAN-aware programs also (almost always) feature security functions in order to prevent unauthorised access – that means making sure that only users with permission can access the file in question. Multiple types of programs can fall into this category – not just transactional ones like database management software, but also things like word processing software. Both can create shared files that are accessible through LAN networks.
There is another type of program – a so-called SWAN – aware program, or Structured Wireless Area Network-aware program. It works in the same way, except that it makes use of wireless networks, rather than local ones.
Common Uses of LAN-Aware Program
- LAN-aware programs can create and maintain files that can be accessed by multiple users.
- Security features that are part of LAN-aware programs ensure that not just anyone on a network can access a file – unless they have the relevant permissions, of course.
- The wireless version of LAN-aware programs are called SWAN-aware programs, and they work essentially the same way LAN-aware programs do.
Common Misuses of LAN-Aware Program
- A LAN-aware program is one that scans for networks.
