difference between lan and wan from kumarfield's blog

In a LAN different cables can be used to physically connect different devices together. However, it’s far more popular to use wifi to connect the different technology and ensure that a fully integrated network is built up. These are the 5 steps needed for a successful LAN implementation.

WANs Explained

This is also known as a Wide Area Network. It’s used to connect devices that are far from another. It’s quite common for a WAN set up to be far more complex than a LAN. Essentially, you start with a LAN and then use the WAN to connect multiple LAN networks to one another. Ultimately, this means that offices can be connected and this typically occurs through public networks.

Which Suits You?

One of the easiest ways to determine which type of network you need is to explore your business set up. A small office or business will typically only need a LAN. The local network will ensure that different files can be transferred through your office leading to a connected business environment. If you have a larger business or multiple branches, that’s when you’re going to need a WAN. This means that you will be able to connect to those branches or different business offices on a unified system. So, while LANs are used for homes, businesses, and schools, WANs provide more widespread connections. LANs will also usually be privately owned whereas WANs will often be run by a third party like a telecom provider. They can also operate on a public network.

Generally, if you are using a WAN you will also have a LAN but the opposite may not be true. However, if a WAN and LAN are in place, it’s likely that these are just pieces of a larger set of networks. As such, these systems can be quite complex to set up and manage. Particularly, if you want to maintain a high bandwidth.

Now, let’s explore some of the differences and advantages of the two networks.

difference between lan and wan