Definition:
A WAN covers a large geographical area, as a province, state or country. WAN networks often several smaller, such as local area networks (LAN) or metro area networks (MANS). Most popular WAN is the Internet worldwide. Some segments of the Internet, such as VPN-based networks, WAN is also in themselves. Finally, many WAN is corporate networks, or research using leased lines. WAN typically use different and more expensive than LAN Network. Key technologies often include WAN SONET, Frame Relay, and ATM.
