LAN vs WAN
Introduction To Computers and IT
|
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 rate |
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 a available for transmission. |
Low bandwidth available for transmission. |
Connection |
One LAN can be connected to other LANs over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves. |
Computers connected to a wide area network are often connected through public networks, such as the telephone system. They can also be connected through leased lines or satellites.
|
Components |
Layer 2 devices like switches, bridges. Layer 1 devices like hubs, repeaters. |
Layers 3 devices Routers, Multilayer Switches and Technology specific devices like ATM or Frame relay Switches etc. |
Problems |
LANs tend to have fewer problems associated with them. |
WANs have more problems due to the large amount of system and data that is present. |
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 |
Experience more data transmission errors. |
Cost |
Set-up costs are low as the devices required to set up the network are cheap |
Set-up costs are high, especially in remote locations where set-up is not down. However, WANs using public network are cheap. |
Spread |
The network is spread to a very small location. |
The network can be spread worldwide. |
Maintenance costs |
Maintenance costs are low as the area coverage is small. |
‘Maintenance costs are high as the area coverage is worldwide. |
Congestion |
Less congestion |
More congestion |