1. Wireless LAN (WLAN)

A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a network that allows devices to connect and communicate wirelessly within a limited area, such as homes, offices, or campuses.

Key Features of WLAN:

• Coverage Area – Typically covers 100-300 meters indoors.
• Technology Used – Wi-Fi (802.11 standards) is the primary wireless LAN technology.
• Devices – Routers, access points (APs), laptops, smartphones, IoT devices.
• Advantages – Easy installation, mobility, and cost-effectiveness.
• Disadvantages – Security risks (e.g., unauthorized access, hacking) and signal interference.

Common WLAN Standards:

• 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax – Different Wi-Fi versions with improved speed & range.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) – Latest standard with higher efficiency and performance.
• WPA2/WPA3 Security – Encryption protocols to secure wireless connections.

2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network covering a large geographical area, such as a city or a metropolitan region. It connects multiple LANs and allows data communication over a wider range.

Key Features of MAN:

• Coverage Area – Ranges from 5 km to 50 km.
• Technology Used – Fiber optics, wireless bridges, and cellular networks (4G, 5G).
• Examples – Cable TV networks, public Wi-Fi hotspots, municipal broadband.
• Advantages – High-speed data transfer, better connectivity in urban areas.
• Disadvantages – Expensive infrastructure, complex maintenance.

Common MAN Technologies:

• Fibre Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) – High-speed fiber-optic technology.
• Metro Ethernet – Ethernet-based MAN for businesses & enterprises.
• Microwave Links – Wireless technology used for point-to-point communication.

3. Wide Area Network (WAN)

A Wide Area Network (WAN) spans across countries or even globally, connecting multiple LANs and MANs together.

Key Features of WAN:

• Coverage Area – Extends over hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
• Technology Used – Leased lines, satellites, MPLS, 4G, 5G, VPNs, SD-WAN.
• Examples – The Internet, corporate networks, global bank networks.
• Advantages – Enables global communication and remote work.
• Disadvantages – High costs, latency issues, security risks.

Common WAN Technologies:

• MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) – Efficient data forwarding for enterprise networks.
• SD-WAN (Software-Defined WAN) – Enhances WAN performance using intelligent routing.
• Satellite Communication – Used in remote areas where fiber and cellular networks are unavailable.