Wide-area networks (WANs)

    WANs interconnect LANs, which then provide access to computers or file servers in other locations. Because WANs connect user networks over a large geographical area, they make it possible for businesses to communicate across great distances. WANs allow computers, printers, and other devices on a LAN to be shared with distant locations. WANs provide instant communications across large geographic areas.

 

    Collaboration software provides access to real-time information and resources and allows meetings to be held remotely. WANs have created a new class of workers called telecommuters. These people never have to leave their homes to go to work.

 

    WANs are designed to do the following:

• Operate over a large and geographically separated area
• Allow users to have real-time communication capabilities with other users
• Provide full-time remote resources connected to local services
• Provide e-mail, Internet, file transfer, and e-commerce services

    Some common WAN technologies include the following:

• Modems
• Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
• Digital subscriber line (DSL)
• Frame Relay
• T1, E1, T3, and E3
• Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)