Explain Some Features Of Wide Area Network

Networking has played a vital role in making the computers more useful by utilizing their full potential. The field of networking is an important part of IT technology. There are different types of networks such as LAN, MAN, PAN, CAN and WAN; where WAN refers to Wide Area Network. Basically, we divide network operating systems into two broad categories; LAN and WAN.

As their names suggest, LAN or Local Area Network is a computer network which covers only a small area; for example a building, a home, an office or a school; whereas WAN covers a wide area of networking. The wider area covered by WAN includes cities, countries, continents and the whole world.

A wide area network requires networking devices such as router, modem and switches. The router determines the route of data transmission. The transfer of data is based on two layers of the Open System Interconnection (OSI). The first layer is a physical layer; while the other is a data link layer which transfers data between two consecutive nodes.

There are four types of Wide Area Network connection options: leased-line connection, circuit-switching connection, packet-switching connection or cell-relay. The leased line is the most classic type of Wide Area Network, where there is a point-to-point connection between two computers. It is mostly used for small scale companies and colleges.

Circuit-switching is another type of Wide Area Network. In this type, a circuit is created between end-points and an example of this is a dial up connection. Another feature of Wide Area Network is packet-switching, where multiple sets of data are sent and received simultaneously.

The advancements in the LAN technology progressed to the development of WAN with the help of telephony technology. Fibre optics also have an effectual role as they create a strong link between the networks, thus WAN technology came into existence which has changed the complete scenario of the computer world. The main reason for its success and popularity is its cost effectiveness. Particularly, from small to big businesses, each is making really good use of wide area networks. There are also many others features and benefits of WAN; for example, it uses publication links and routers to create communication networks.

Wireless wide area network is a type of wide area network. It enables you to access information anytime and anywhere. It maintains a secure and reliable connectivity and many of these use USB modems. USB modems are special devices that act as serial ports. The connection is achieved through the radio frequency technologies that work efficiently even in the obstructing areas.

Having said this, it must also be known that Wide Area Networks have some negative aspects as well. Security is one of the major risks for people and companies using Wide Area Networks. Anyone can access your computer with the help of your IP. Moreover, installing Wide Area Networks in places such as institutions and business companies require money, resources and frequent maintenance services. To conclude, Wide Area Networks has brought revolution in our lives. It has helped the world to communicate faster and efficiently; and has also made the life of people in general, easy by providing online facilities which no one ever thought of 30 years back.

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