WAN

Wide Area Network

A telecommunications network that extends over a large geographic area for the primary purpose of computer networking. Wide area networks are often established with leased telecommunication circuits.

Business, education, and government entities utilize WANs to relay data among staff, students, clients, buyers, and suppliers from various geographical locations. In essence, this mode of network serves as the backbone for many of the internet services provided across the globe. Unlike Local Area Networks (LANs), which connect computers in relative proximity, such as within a building or a campus, WANs cover broader areas, such as cities, states, or even countries.

The internet is the largest and most well-known WAN, spanning the entire Earth. WANs are typically built and operated by multiple telecommunications service providers, whereas LANs are owned, controlled, and managed by a single organization or individual.

• Abbreviation: WAN