What is Wide Area Network (WAN)? Uses, Advantages and Disadvantages

Wide Area Network (WAN):

• WAN interconnects different Sites, User Terminals, and enable LANs to Communicate with each other.
• They exist in an unlimited geographical area.

• Used to Communicate to Nationwide or Worldwide.

• Transmission medium used are Telephone Lines, microwave and Satellite links.

• Devices used are HUB, Switches, Routers (etc.)

• Speed of Data Transmission is 1800 to 9600 bits per second.

• Very High Installation cost as Compare to LANs.

• Not owned by a single organization.

• Complex structure than LAN

• There is more chance of errors due to the distance data travels.

• Success Rate of Data Transmission is less than LAN.

• (e.g.) Internet, Network of all Branches of a Bank.