WAN (Wide Area network) Defination Advantage Disadvantage

A computer network that spans a relatively large geographical area. Typically, a WAN consists of two or more local-area networks (LANs). Computers connected to a wide-area network are often connected through public networks, such as the telephone system. They can also be connected through leased lines or satellites. Internet is the example of WAN.

ADVANTAGES Of WAN

• Covers a large geographical area so long distance businesses can connect on the one network
• Shares software and resources with connecting workstations
• Messages can be sent very quickly to anyone else on the network. These messages can have pictures, sounds, or data included with them (called attachments).
• Expensive things (such as printers or phone lines to the internet) can be shared by all the computers on the network without having to buy a different peripheral for each computer.
• Everyone on the network can use the same data. This avoids problems where some users may have older information than others.
• Share information/files over a larger area
• large network cover

DISADVANTAGES Of WAN

• Are expensive and generally slow
• Need a good firewall to restrict outsiders from entering and disrupting the network
• Setting up a network can be an expensive and complicated experience. The bigger the network the more expensive it is.
• Security is a real issue when many different people have the ability to use information from other computers. Protection against hackers and viruses adds more complexity and expense.
• Once set up, maintaining a network is a full-time job which requires network supervisors and technicians to be employed. 
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• COMPARISON OF LAN, MAN, AND, WAN

  What is the difference between a LAN, a MAN, and a WAN?
  
  A LAN (local area network) is a group of computers and network devices connected together, usually within the same building. By definition, the connections must be high speed and relatively inexpensive (e.g., token ring or Ethernet). Most Indiana University Bloomington departments are on LANs.
  
  
  A LAN connection is a high-speed connection to a LAN. On the IUB campus, most connections are either Ethernet (10Mbps) or Fast Ethernet (100Mbps), and a few locations have Gigabit Ethernet (1000Mbps) connections.
  
  
  A MAN (metropolitan area network) is a larger network that usually spans several buildings in the same city or town. The IUB network is an example of a MAN.
  
  
  A WAN (wide area network), in comparison to a MAN, is not restricted to a geographical location, although it might be confined within the bounds of a state or country. A WAN connects several LANs, and may be limited to an enterprise (a corporation or an organization) or accessible to the public. The technology is high speed and relatively expensive. The Internet is an example of a worldwide public WAN.