LAN vs WAN

A LAN (Local Area Network) connects devices within a small area such as a home, office or school, usually using Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi. LANs are fast, privately owned and have low delay.

A WAN (Wide Area Network) connects networks over large distances, such as between cities or countries; the internet is the largest WAN. WANs use leased lines, fibre, satellite or mobile networks run by service providers, and are slower and more costly than LANs. A MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) covers a city in between.