Network, Networking Technology, Data Communication Terms, Glossary and Dictionary

WAN: Wide Area Network

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a computer network covering multiple distance areas, which may spread across the entire world. WANs often connect multiple smaller networks, such as local area networks (LANs) or metro area networks (MANs). The world's most popular WAN is the Internet. Some segments of the Internet are also WANs in themselves. A Wide Area Network may be privately owned or rented from a service provider, but the term usually connotes the inclusion of public (shared user) networks.

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WAN: Wide Area Network