Networks: LAN and WAN
A LAN connects devices in a small area such as a school, while a WAN connects networks across large distances.
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A LAN connects devices in a small area such as a school, while a WAN connects networks across large distances.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connect LANs
- The internet is the largest WAN
- Switches connect devices in a LAN
🧠 Quick quiz
Three questions. Score 2 or more to complete the topic.
What is Networks: LAN and WAN?
Within Computer Science, which covers algorithms, programming, data, networks, hardware and safe, responsible use of technology, this topic explains Networks: LAN and WAN. Computing topics explain how software, hardware and data work, with diagrams and models that show each step in order.
Check that you can explain Networks: LAN and WAN in your own words and give one example from everyday life. If you can do that, you have understood the core idea.
Understanding Networks: LAN and WAN helps you design, test and explain programs, websites and systems, from small projects to exam questions.
Networks: LAN and WAN in detail
A network connects computers so they can share data and resources. A LAN (local area network) covers a small area such as a home, school or office, and is usually owned by one organisation, with fast speeds. A WAN (wide area network) covers a large geographical area, linking LANs, and the internet is the largest WAN.
Hardware includes switches, routers, network interface cards, cables and wireless access points. Networks allow sharing of files, printers and internet access, and centralised management and backup, but need security and are affected if a main component fails. Client-server and peer-to-peer are two common models.
How the interactive helps you understand Networks: LAN and WAN
Watch the network in the interactive. Use any sliders or buttons it offers to change the values and see how the network responds.
Before you change anything, predict the result. Then change one value at a time and check whether your prediction was right. This is a quick way to build a correct mental model of Networks: LAN and WAN.
Real-life uses and examples
- Trace through a process that uses Networks: LAN and WAN to check what it does step by step.
- Recognise Networks: LAN and WAN in an app or device you use every day.
- Apply Networks: LAN and WAN when you design a small program, website or spreadsheet.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Testing only the normal case and forgetting the edge cases.
- Using the term without being able to say what the computer actually does.
- Learning the definition without testing it. Use the quiz and the interactive to check that you can apply the idea.
Frequently asked questions about Networks: LAN and WAN
What is Networks: LAN and WAN?
A LAN connects devices in a small area such as a school, while a WAN connects networks across large distances.
What are the most important points about Networks: LAN and WAN?
The main points are: Wi-Fi and Ethernet connect LANs; The internet is the largest WAN; Switches connect devices in a LAN.
Why is Networks: LAN and WAN useful?
Understanding Networks: LAN and WAN helps you design, test and explain programs, websites and systems, from small projects to exam questions.
How can I practise Networks: LAN and WAN?
Open the interactive at the top of this page and change the controls one at a time. Predict the result before each change, then take the three-question quiz. A score of two or more marks the topic as complete on this device.
Which topics are related to Networks: LAN and WAN?
Related topics in Computer Science include IP Addresses and DNS, Cloud Computing, Encryption.