WAN, Wide Area Network

A WAN can be simply defined as a network that makes use of routers and numerous communication links to establish connections. Unlike a PAN (personal area network) or a LAN (local area network), a WAN is not limited to a specific location. The largest and most widely used example of a WAN is the network known as the internet. A WAN is used to interconnect LANs and other kinds of networks. This enables users and computers in a single location to communicate with users and computers in another location. Many WANs are privately managed and created by a specific organization. They often use leased lines, in which each end contains a router that connects it to a LAN. Since leased lines can be rather expensive, WANs may also be created using packet switching and circuit switching techniques. A WAN built by an ISP offers connections from a LAN directly to the internet.