WAN vs. LAN – Which is better?

A network connects an unlimited number of devices to allow the exchange of data and resources seamlessly. Depending on the range and size of the network, there exist different network dimensions. In this comparison review, let us look at the differences and similarities between WAN and LAN.

Whether you want to download an attachment from an email, access the internet, or print a document, networks for the backbone of business today. A network can range from a handful of connected computer systems in a single room to millions of connected devices across the entire globe. There are numerous types of network coverage in existence, but they all have their distinct characteristics. Here, we shall analyze WAN and LAN networks and find out their key differences and similarities.

What are the differences between WAN and LAN?

WAN vs. LAN – How do they compare?

Coverage

A Wide Area Network (WAN) connects various computer systems that are not close to one another, allowing them to share data and access the internet. As a result, low-voltage devices and computers can remotely connect to one another across extensive physical distances.

On the other hand, a Local Area Network (LAN) is responsible for connecting low-voltage devices and computer systems across short physical distances, like within a building, small office, or home.  Such devices and computer systems are likely to use the same router or switch to connect and share information.

WAN is, therefore, more convenient for use as it can connect devices over extensive distances.

Speed

Being that WAN is spread over a large geographical area, this network experiences lesser speed compared to LAN. Generally, WAN has a data transmission speed of about 150Mbps and experience more congestion, which drastically reduces the bandwidth available for transmission to connected devices.

Local Area Networks connect devices within a small geographical range, meaning it has faster data transfer speeds and less congestion. With an average rate of about 1000Mbps, its connected devices can enjoy high bandwidth for transmission.

LAN is, therefore, faster than WAN as it offers a higher bandwidth.

Technology

Wide Area Networks use a set of interconnected routers and switches connected across diverse topologies to provide a variety of public networks. Some key technologies found in WAN include Frame Relay, SONET, PPP, ATM, and x.25. Each of these technologies functions in a packet switching or circuit switching environment, or leased lines to give various computer systems and low-voltage devices connectivity.

Alternatively, Local Area Networks use different technologies to send and regulate data in the form of packets. Some common LAN technologies used include Ethernet, FDDI, and Token Ring. People in different areas who want to share a similar networking resource may opt to use virtual LAN (VLAN) technologies.

LAN is, therefore, a more reliable network as it features more versatile and flexible technology.

Connection

Since WANs have an extensive geographic range, they often connect through public networks, like those offered through leased lines, satellites, or a telephone system. The internet is an excellent example of a WAN as it connects various computers and low-voltage devices all over the world.

LANs can connect to other LANS over a short distance by using radio waves or a telephone line. Devices can physically connect to the network by using Ethernet or copper cables. Wi-Fi routers have become increasingly popular when using wireless networking over a local network.

LAN is, therefore, more efficient as it offers connectivity through radio waves and Ethernet cables.

Ownership

Wide Area Networks can be privately, or publicly-owned depending on the geographical area covered and its distribution. Often, this type of network coverage is owned and managed by the public or multiple administrators.

On the other hand, Local Area Networks are usually for private use, meaning private individuals or companies own and manage it. Likewise, there is more security over LANs than WANs, just by the scope and nature of their coverage area.

LAN is, therefore, more secure for use as it is privately-owned.

WAN vs. LAN – A comparison overview

Wide Area Network (WAN)

Wide Area Networks (WANs) connect various computers and other devices across a vast geographical area, like across cities and continents, to allow them to share files and data. With this type of network coverage, you can connect to an unlimited number of individual computers and local networks.

Furthermore, this network layers three devices, namely Multi-Layer Switches, routers, and technology-specific devices such as X.25, ATM, and Frame Relay, to transmit its signal. However, with an average speed of 150Mbps, WANs have a low data transmission rate as it sends less bandwidth due to numerous connected devices. Such networks also experience more data transmission errors and are less fault-tolerant due to the vast systems connected.

WANs are either private or public-owned with an option to rent. Often, they exist under distributive or collective ownership and management due to its extensive coverage. The internet is the best example of a WAN network as it is available for use by different devices all over the world.

Pros

• Covers a large geographical area
• It provides connectivity to a wide range of devices, including computers, mobile phones, laptops, gaming consoles, etc.
• Allows sharing of data across a large area
• Uses radio transmitters and receivers in-built in client devices

Cons

• High initial setup costs
• Difficult to control the network
• Minimal security

Local Area Networks (LANs)

Local Area Networks allow more than one computer or low-voltage device to share data and resources when close to each other, like when in a private household, small office, or a building. These devices often use a similar switch or router and connect ordinary everyday devices, like laptops, tablets, desktops, and printers.

A common technology used to connect these devices is Ethernet’s use, but you may find other LANs using Token Ring, ARCNET, and FDDI despite being widely outdated. When using Ethernet technologies, data transmission may be thorough fiber optic or copper cables.

Depending on the transmission medium used and the network structure, LANs have a standard data throughput range of 10 to 1000Mbps. As a result, connected devices can enjoy fast data transmission rates of vast amounts of data.

When this network connects various devices through radio waves, it becomes a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). With this type of network, devices can easily integrate into corporate or home networks, but they will experience lower data throughput than on an Ethernet connection. LANs are privately owned as they serve a small geographic area.

Pros

• Reduces the cost of hardware purchase as it allows computer resources like DVD-ROM, printers, and Hard-disks to connect
• Users can use the same software when accessing the network
• Allows smooth transfer of messages and data over connected devices
• Easy to manage data
• Secure
• All LAN users can share a single internet connection

Cons

• LAN admin can check the personal data of every LAN user
• High initial setup cost

Conclusion

There are many advantages and disadvantages between WAN and LAN networks. LAN offers high data transmission rates, excellent reliability, as well as easy management and security. On the other hand, WAN is not restricted by geographic locations as it can connect a group of cities together easily.

Final verdict: So which is better WAN vs. LAN?

All factors considered, LAN offers better network connectivity as it features fantastic transmission speeds, more security, and incredible reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does WAN work?

WANs connect various computers across broad geographical areas by using telecommunications technology such as SONET, Frame Relay, PPP, and ATMs.

What is the range of LAN?

LANs operate within a small geographic area, like within a home, office, or building.