Ethernet MFP

PC connection (LAN)

— models with the availability of wired connection to computer networks via a standard LAN connector.

This feature allows to at least use the MFP in the format of a network device within the local network — that is, to get access to printing, scanning, etc. from any computer in this network. At the same time, for some models, when working in the local network, a print server may be required — a separate PC, router or NAS server responsible for managing the MFP and working as an intermediary between the multifunctional device and the rest of the network. However, most modern MFPs can also work in peer-to-peer networks — without a print server, with a direct connection through a simple router. And the most advanced networking devices can even connect directly to the Internet to use cloud printing, a technology that allows users to share content across the World Wide Web.

An alternative to LAN is wireless Wi-Fi (see the relevant paragraph); a wired connection is less convenient due to the need to lay cables, but it is more reliable and cheaper.