Geographical differentiation

LAN (Local Area Network)

A group of computers interconnected within a limited area, e.g. within a house or several buildings. The computers usually share a common address range.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

If networks are connected via routers, a Wide Area Network (WAN) is created. A WAN is not limited in scope. One example of a WAN is the Internet.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network connecting users of computer resources within a geographical area/region with one another. The covered area is larger than that of a Local Area Network (LAN), yet smaller than that of a Wide Area Network (WAN). The term is used to describe the merging of networks within a city into a much larger overall network (which may in turn serve as an efficient connection to a Wide Area Network). It also refers to the connection of several LANs via bridging. This is done by means of a backbone line (base connection e.g., in telecommunications). This type of application can also be referred to as a campus network.

Clients, servers, printers, and routers are interconnected via data cables (copper-cored cable, fiberglass). Network logins, data and program requests, print jobs and Internet access are controlled and processed by network users / subscribers (e.g. server, router). The network participants manage the users and their rights. There are read, write, and execution rights for files and directories, as well as printing and Internet access rights. These authorizations make it possible to set up a safe, customized network.