What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a computer network that covers a broad geographic area, connecting multiple LANs (Local Area Networks). It can span cities, states, countries or even continents. WANs are used to connect remote offices, branch locations and individuals to a central network.
Benefits:
- Global connectivity: Enables communication and data transfer across vast distances.
- Resource sharing: Allows organisations to share data, applications, and hardware across multiple locations.
- Scalability: Can accommodate growth and expansion of networks.
- Remote access: Provides access to network resources from anywhere with an internet connection.
Use Cases:
WANs are essential for:
- Large organisations: Connecting multiple branch offices and headquarters.
- Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Providing internet access to customers.
- Government agencies: Connecting government offices and departments.
- Educational institutions: Networking campuses in different locations.
Key Components:
- Routers: Connect multiple networks and direct data traffic.
- Modems: Convert digital signals into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines.
- Switches: Connect devices within a LAN segment of the WAN.
- Communication channels: Physical media for data transmission (e.g., fibre optic cables, satellite links).
