Difference between LAN and WAN

Last Updated : 13 Sep, 2024

Networks can be classified broadly into two categories; Local Area Networks LAN and Wide Area Networks WAN. As compared to LAN, which could be as restricted as a home, office, or school, WAN covers very large areas and is used to connect more than one LAN in different towns, states, countries, or continents. It will therefore be important to understand the comparison between these two networks by comparing the functions of each depending on which one of them will suit the user's needs best.

Local Area Network (LAN)

LAN is a group of network devices that allow communication between connected devices. The private ownership has control over the local area network rather than the public. LAN has a shorter propagation delay than MAN as well as WAN. It covers the smallest area such as College, School Hospital and so on.

Uses of LAN

LAN is ideal when:

All the devices are located nearby, for example in one room or at least they are in the same building.
Real-time data transfer or file transfer and gaming require high bandwidth.
The primary of network control and security are seen since LANs are easier to monitor and control.
In some cases, the number of devices or users that need to be connected has to be limited and should not depend on other networks.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

WAN covers a larger area than LAN as well as MAN such as Country/Continent etc. WAN is expensive and should or might not be owned by one organization. PSTN or Satellite medium is used for wide area networks.
WAN

Uses of WAN

WAN is suitable when,

An equipment or office is located in more than one geographical area.
It is necessary to link several LANs for the organization of your data storage or use of common applications.
In multinational organizations, there is always need of communication between different regional offices in the business.
Levelling of reliance on external infrastructure like Internet or leased lines is still acceptable as a means of telecommunication for the long distances telecommunication.