A wide-area network (WAN) connects several local area networks (LANs) across cities, states, or even countries. WANs cover vast distances, enabling data transfer and communication over larger areas than LANs, which are more restricted. WANs make global connectivity possible and link different networks together.
Important Features of WAN
1. Geographical Scope: Wide Area Networks (WANs) connect networks that are geographically dispersed across large distances. This can involve bridging networks across continents or just inside a single nation.
2. Connection Technologies: To enable connectivity, WANs make use of a number of technologies, such as:
Leased Lines: Telecommunication providers offer dedicated lines for reliable, fast connectivity.
In remote locations where terrestrial connections are unfeasible, satellite links are utilized.
Public Networks: The Internet, for example, offers a worldwide wide area network architecture.
3. Service Providers: To provide connectivity and bandwidth over wide areas, WANs rely on services from providers like phone companies, cable companies, satellite providers, and network operators.
4. Data Transmission: Wide Area Networks (WANs) employ serial connections, such as fiber optics, T1 lines, and other high-speed data transmission techniques, to transfer data across extended distances.
Wide Area Network (WAN) Examples
The World Wide Web: The Internet, which links millions of LANs and other networks worldwide and makes a variety of uses possible, including web browsing, cloud computing, email, and other services, is the most well-known example of a wide area network (WAN).
Bank Networks: Central data centers, branch offices, and ATM networks are all connected by WANs used by banks. This makes it possible to communicate data securely and effectively, manage accounts remotely, and conduct transactions.
Corporate Networks: To link remote workers, data centers, and branch offices, large businesses frequently use wide area networks (WANs). This supports corporate operations and cooperation by ensuring smooth communication and data sharing across many geographic locations.
Educational institutes: To facilitate access to shared resources and cooperative projects, campuses, research facilities, and distant learning centers can be connected via wide area networks (WANs) by universities and research institutes.
WAN contrasted with LAN and MAN
1. Local Area Network (LAN):
Scope: Restricted to a narrow geographic area, like one office or building.
Technology: wireless or Ethernet.
Speed: Within the local area, connections are often fast.
2. Network of Metropolitan Areas (MAN)
Scope: Connects several buildings throughout a city or sizable campus.
Technology: Usually makes use of leased lines or high-speed fiber optics.
Connects many local area networks (LANs) inside a metropolitan area.
3. Wide Area Network (WAN):
Scope: Connects networks over greater distances, extending beyond local and metropolitan areas.
Technology: Consists of public networks such as the Internet, satellite links, and leased lines.
Linking numerous LANs and MANs over wide geographic areas is the goal.