Internet of Things (IoT) - Beginner to Expert

"LAN," "WAN," and "MAN" are acronyms that describe different types of networks based on their geographical scope. Here's what each term means:

LAN (Local Area Network):

• A LAN is a network that is limited to a small geographic area, such as a single building, office, or home.
• LANs are typically used for connecting devices like computers, printers, and other peripherals within a limited area.
• They are often based on technologies like Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
• LANs provide high data transfer rates and low latency due to their small coverage area.
• Examples of LANs include a home network, a small office network, or a university campus network.
  

WAN (Wide Area Network):

• A WAN is a network that covers a broader geographical area, often spanning cities, countries, or even continents.
• WANs connect LANs over long distances, enabling data communication between geographically separated locations.
• WANs typically use technologies like the Internet, dedicated leased lines, and satellite links.
• WANs may involve higher latency and lower data transfer rates compared to LANs because of the greater distances involved.
• Examples of WANs include the global Internet, corporate networks connecting offices across different cities, and telecommunications networks.

1. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network):

• A MAN is a network that falls between a LAN and a WAN in terms of geographical scope.
• MANs cover a metropolitan area or a city, connecting multiple LANs within that area.
• They are designed to provide high-speed connectivity within a city or a large campus.
• Technologies like fiber optics and wireless connections are often used in MANs.
• MANs offer faster data transfer rates than WANs but provide greater coverage than LANs.
• Examples of MANs include city-wide Wi-Fi networks and university networks that link different campuses within a city.

In summary, LANs are confined to a small area, WANs cover large geographic regions, and MANs bridge the gap between these two by connecting LANs across a city or metropolitan area.