wide area network (WAN) definition

wide area network (WAN)

Data and voice communication network that extends beyond the geographical limitations of a local area network (LAN). In a typical configuration, a WAN consists of several LANs at dispersed locations interconnected via gateways over leased or dedicated telephone and/or wireless links. Airline- and hotel reservation services comprise of WANs, and the internet is the world's largest WAN. Intranets, extranets, and virtual private networks are all WANs simulated over internet connections.

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