Difference Between LAN and WAN
written by Sehrish BasharatComputer networks are groups of computers connected together via a common communication protocol. A computer network consists of two or more devices (computers) communicating with each other over a communication medium such as wires, radio waves, optical fibers, etc. The Internet is a most popular example of a computer network.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a computer network that connects computers together in a small geographic region. LANs allow users to share files, printers, and other devices over a short distance. A LAN may connect two offices, a group of workstations at a single office, or even a home network.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A wide area network (WAN) is a computer networking technology that provides connectivity between computers over a distance. A WAN is commonly referred to as a LAN (local area network).
A WAN uses dedicated connections to connect computers across a larger geographic region than a typical local area network (LAN), such as connecting offices in different cities.
Difference between LAN and WAN
| LAN | WAN |
|---|---|
| LAN refers to Local Area Network. | WAN refers to Wide Area Network. |
| LAN is used to connect computers in a building. | WAN is used to connect computers anywhere in the world. |
| LAN covers a limited area. | WAN can cover more distance. |
| LAN has a fast transmission rate. Its speed is typically from 10Mbps to 1000Mbps. | Data transfer speed is slow in WAN. Data transmission rates are typically 56kbps to 50Mbps. |
| LAN is less costly. | WAN is expensive. |
| LAN is usually connected through wires. | WAN is usually connected through telephone lines. |
| The connection in a LAN is permanent using wires. | The connection in WAN is not permanent. |
| LAN is used to share files and hardware devices like printers, and modems. | WAN is used to share only data and information i.e. an email, or files. |
| LAN has less possibility of data transmission error. | WAN has a higher possibility of data transmission error. |
| In LAN, problems commonly occur due to cable disturbance by the end users. | In WAN, problems commonly occur due to communication problems in the medium. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between LAN and WAN?
LANs use direct cabling, wireless radio, or infrared signals to connect computers in a small area.
WANs use long-distance transmission media such as phone lines, microwaves, or satellites.
Why LAN is faster than WAN?
WAN covers a large geographical area, but the transmission speed of LAN is faster than LAN. Because LAN covers a small area. The data transfer speed of LAN is (1000Mbps) and WAN is (150Mbps).
What is WAN used for?
WAN is used for a large geographical area. It is used for communication and sharing of information between different devices all over the world.
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