A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a telecommunications network that extends over a large geographic area, often connecting multiple Local Area Networks (LANs). Here’s a quick overview:
Key Features of a WAN
- Geographic Scope: WANs cover large distances, such as cities, countries, or even continents.
- Connectivity: They connect multiple LANs, allowing devices in different locations to communicate.
- Technology: WANs use various technologies like leased lines, satellite links, and public networks (e.g., the internet) to connect different LANs.
Components of a WAN
- Router: Direct data between different networks.
- Switch: Manage data traffic within the network.
- Modems: Convert digital data to analog signals for transmission over telephone lines or other media.
- Leased Lines: Dedicated communication lines rented from a service provider.
Types of WAN Connections
- Leased Lines: Provide a dedicated, private connection between two points.
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Use encryption to create secure connections over public networks.
- Tunnelling: Encapsulates data packets within other packets to send them over different networks.
Benefits of a WAN
- Resource Sharing: Allows organisations to share resources and data across multiple locations.
- Centralised Management: Facilitates centralised control and management of network resources.
- Scalability: Can be expanded to connect more locations as needed.