LAN and WAN definition

Difference between LAN and WAN:

Difference	LAN	WAN
Definition	LAN is a computer network that connects computers in small areas.	WAN is a network that covers a broad area using private or public network transports.
Data transfer rates	LAN offers high data transfer rates.	WAN has lower data transfer rates due to congestion
Speed	80-90 mbps	10-20 mbps
Technology	LANs use technologies such as Ethernet and Token Ring to connect to other networks.	WAN uses technologies such as MPLS, ATM, Frame Relay and X.25 for data connection over greater distances.
Bandwidth	High bandwidth is available for transmission.	Low bandwidth available for transmission.
Components	Layer 2 devices like switches, bridges. Layer 1 devices like hubs, repeaters.	Layers 3 devices Routers, Multi-layer Switches and Technology specific devices like ATM or Frame-relay Switches etc.
Ownership	LAN networks can be owned up private companies or people that set it up at homes.	WAN are not owned up any one organization but exist under collective or distributed ownership.
Data Transmission Error	Experiences fewer data transmission errors.	Experiences more data transmission errors.
Cost	Set-up costs are low as the devices required to set up the networks are cheap.	Set-up costs are high, especially in remote locations where set-up is not done. However, WANs using public networks are cheap.
Spread	The network is spread to a very small location.	The network can be spread world-wide.
Maintenance costs	Maintenance costs are low as the area coverage is small.	Maintenance costs are high as the area coverage is world-wide.
Congestion	Less congestion	More congestion

loading...