Wide Area Network

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that spans a relatively large geographical area and can be a mix of public and private networks. The largest WAN in the world is the Internet, which can sometimes be referred to as the cloud.

Comparatively, wide area networks are not restricted to the same geographical location as a LAN would be. A LAN can be set up in any number of geographical areas and be connected to a WAN—meaning a WAN is not constrained to one specific location. A virtual private network (VPN) facilitates connectivity and security between WAN sites. Different VPNs can be utilized for different use cases.

Advantages and Disadvantages of WAN

WAN Advantages include:

• Can cover a large geographical area
• Centralized infrastructure
• Security
• Increased bandwidth with the use of leased lines as opposed to broadband connections

WAN Disadvantages include:

• High set up cost
• Possibility for security gaps
• Needs antivirus software and firewalls

Security

WAN security should be expanded to wherever end users will be utilizing their devices from, including users that work from a device in their home. End users that utilize WAN should also use firewalls and antivirus software to prevent unauthorized access or compromises to their device.

Even though a WAN can be as secure, a WAN service provider should not be assumed to give a certain amount of security. Even the use of a VPN does not ensure the total security of a WAN system.