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The textbook definition of a WAN is a computer network spanning regions, countries, or even the world. [3] [4] However, in terms of the application of communication protocols and concepts, it may be best to view WANs as computer networking technologies used to transmit data over long distances, and between different networks.
A conceptual diagram of a LAN at a residential house; the router in this case is assumed to also function as a wireless access point.Also shown in this example (shaded in yellow) is the network's connection to the Internet via fixed-line means.
For example, the sample diagram does not indicate the physical type of connection between the PCs and the switch, but since a modern LAN is depicted, Ethernet may be assumed. If the same style of line was used in a WAN (wide area network) diagram, however, it may indicate a different type of connection.
There are many different network structures that IP can be used across to efficiently route messages, for example: Wide area networks (WAN) Metropolitan area networks (MAN) Local area networks (LAN) There are three features that differentiate MANs from LANs or WANs: The area of the network size is between LANs and WANs.
A LAN can be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using a router. The defining characteristics of a LAN, in contrast to a WAN, include higher data transfer rates , limited geographic range, and lack of reliance on leased lines to provide connectivity.
For example the fact a typical home router has 4 to 6 Ethernet LAN ports, so a router's switching capacity could be exceeded. Another example may be that a network device might require a non-standard port feature such as power over Ethernet (PoE). (IP cameras and IP phones).
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a computer network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic region of the size of a metropolitan area.The term MAN is applied to the interconnection of local area networks (LANs) in a city into a single larger network which may then also offer efficient connection to a wide area network.
If a network is a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN), every LAN or WAN node that participates on the data link layer must have a network address, typically one for each network interface controller it possesses. Examples are computers, a DSL modem with Ethernet interface and wireless access point.