There are many terms related to networks and the Internet that we can see. When we navigate different devices and protocols come into play that are necessary. Some of them may raise doubts for users. There are terms like WAN, WLAN, MAN or LAN that are sometimes confused. Which we are going to see and explain what each of these consist of.
Definition of WAN, WLAN, MAN and LAN Networks
▸LAN Network
The Local Area Network or LAN (Local Area Network) is a computer network that covers small geographic areas with a range of 1–5 km. These areas include homes, offices, schools, or a group of buildings where there are computers, servers, and peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, projectors, and other storage components.
Among the most common LAN protocols are: Ethernet, Token Ring, and distributed data interface over fiber.
▸WLAN Network
By WLAN we mean a wireless local area network. Basically it is to connect between devices that are within a radius. To connect a device in WLAN we will need to have a compatible network card, as well as a computer that provides the connection, such as a router. Nowadays practically all mobile phones can connect to this type of network. It is what we know as having Wi-Fi compatibility.
▸MAN Network
A metropolitan area network (MAN) consists of computers sharing resources with each other in coverage areas larger than a LAN, but smaller than a WAN. They work much like a local area network but meet different technology standards. These enhancements are necessary to address latency and loss of signal quality problems in interconnects that span long distances.
▸WAN network
The wide area network or WAN is a computer network covering a large-scale geographical area with a diameter of approximately 100–1000 km, that is, a communication network whose link crosses metropolitan, regional or national borders. These are used by international companies that use the WAN connection to communicate with their different subsidiaries through microwave satellites.
Check also:
Wi-fi Router – Tips to improve its security
