From the desktop to the world

• LANS

  • Local area networks

• MANS

  • Metropolitan area networks

• WANS

  • Wide area networks

Previous slide

Next slide

Back to first slide

View graphic version

Local Area Networks (LANs) can be very large but are topographically limited to a small area which can be physically connected with private facilities. Factories, office buildings, campuses and homes are typical LAN sites.

For dispersed enterprises, a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), will typically purchase services from a local telephone company to link several LANs. Cost becomes more of a factor is determining the right mix of methodologies and equipment.

Wide Area Networks can link LANs and MANs around the globe. Cost and configuration become critical. The Internet is the ultimate WAN.