A big information network that is not connected to a single place is referred to as a wide area network (WAN). Through a WAN provider, WANs may enable communication, information exchange, and much more between devices all over the world.
Given that the internet is the biggest WAN in the world, WANs can be crucial for global enterprises as well as for daily use. To learn more about WANs, their use, how they differ from other networks, and their general goal for both individuals and organizations, continue reading.
How about we start with the basics of what a WAN is below?
What is WAN?
Wide area network (WAN), a type of telecommunication network that may connect devices from various areas and throughout the world, are as previously said. The biggest and most extensive kind of computer network now in use are WANs.
These networks are frequently built by service providers who then rent out their WAN to organizations, including corporations, universities, governments, and the general public.
No matter where they are, as long as they have access to the established WAN, these clients may utilize the network to relay and store data or connect with other users. Different linkages, such as virtual private networks (VPNs) or lines, wireless networks, cellular networks, or internet access, can be used to enable access.
International enterprises can quickly do their necessary everyday tasks thanks to WANs. The WAN of a company can be used by employees from anywhere to exchange data, interact with coworkers, or simply maintain a connection to the organization’s larger data resource center.
What is the difference between WAN and LAN?
A region that is relatively small is designated as a local area network (LAN). LANs are often restricted to a single building or a small campus in the corporate environment.
All the devices that end users require access to are connected by switches and routers in a LAN configuration.
Your house’s Wi-Fi may be used as a LAN to link various devices, such as laptops, desktop computers, printers, and smart home gadgets, to a central router.
An external link is introduced to the router when your network needs access to resources that are not present on the LAN. Therefore, a WAN joins different networks together to exchange resources, whereas a LAN connects you to local resources on your network.
In the event of a business with a corporate headquarters and several branch offices dispersed around the globe, the WAN connects numerous LANs; WANs can use a number of transport techniques, in contrast to LANs, which commonly use Ethernet technology to link end users.
The purpose of having a WAN?
WANs provide communication between branches, information sharing, and connectivity as businesses expand and go global.
Organizations would be confined to certain geographical areas or restricted locations if WAN connections didn’t exist. LANs would enable businesses to operate inside of their building, but expansion to other regions such as various towns or even countries would not be feasible since the related infrastructure would be too expensive for most businesses.
Regardless of WAN being an essential part of running a business, it is also a very important tool to serve the public; Students might even rely on it in universities; they can use databases, communicate, bank shop, and more.