🌍 Wide Area Networks (WAN)
🌍 Wide Area Networks (WAN)
📘 What is WAN?
WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that connects computers and smaller networks (like LANs) across large geographical areas — such as different cities, provinces, or countries.
🔌 Example: A school in Islamabad connected to its main office in Lahore through the internet or leased line is using a WAN.
🔍 Key Features of WAN
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Coverage | Can span across cities, countries, or continents. |
| Uses Telecom Lines | Uses telephone lines, fiber optics, satellites, etc. |
| Slower than LAN | Generally slower due to long distances. |
| High Cost | Expensive to install and maintain. |
| Public or Private | Can be private (used by banks, companies) or public (like the Internet). |
🛠️ Devices Used in WAN
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Router: Sends data between networks.
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Modem: Converts digital data to be sent over phone lines.
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Switch: Helps connect multiple LANs.
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Firewall: Protects the network from external threats.
🌐 Technologies Used in WAN
| Technology | Description |
|---|---|
| Leased Line | A dedicated line from a telecom company. |
| Fiber Optic | High-speed cable-based communication. |
| Satellite | Used in remote or rural areas. |
| Mobile Network | 3G/4G/5G for internet access across distances. |
| VPN | Virtual Private Network for secure WAN access. |
✅ Advantages of WAN
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Connects Remote Areas: Useful for schools and colleges with multiple branches.
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Centralized Data: All branches can access the same information.
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Resource Sharing: Share printers, software, and data remotely.
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Supports E-learning: Enables distance education and online resources.
❌ Disadvantages of WAN
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Expensive Setup: Needs costly infrastructure and professional setup.
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Maintenance: Difficult to manage due to size and complexity.
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Slower Speed: Slower compared to LANs due to long-distance transmission.
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Security Risks: More open to cyber threats, needs strong firewalls.
🧠 Real-Life Examples
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Banks using WAN to connect all ATMs and branches.
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Educational networks like Virtual University managing data centers and campuses across Pakistan.
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Government departments communicating through secure WANs.
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