The main difference between LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) lies in their scope, size, and purpose:
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!| Feature | LAN (Local Area Network) | WAN (Wide Area Network) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A network that connects computers and devices within a small geographical area. | A network that connects multiple LANs across large geographical areas, often globally. |
| Coverage | Limited to a single building, office, school, or home. | Covers cities, countries, or even continents. |
| Speed | Generally faster (up to 1 Gbps or more). | Slower due to longer distances (typically 10 Mbps – 100 Mbps). |
| Ownership | Usually owned, controlled, and maintained by a single organization or individual. | Can be owned by multiple organizations or service providers. |
| Connection Medium | Uses Ethernet cables, Wi-Fi, or fiber optics. | Uses leased lines, satellite links, or the internet. |
| Cost | Lower cost since it covers a small area. | Higher cost due to infrastructure and maintenance over long distances. |
| Example | A home Wi-Fi network, an office network. | The internet, a bank’s branch network, or a multinational company’s private network. |
In summary, LANs are smaller, faster, and locally managed, while WANs cover vast distances, are slower, and often rely on third-party service providers.
