Summary
A wide area network (WAN) consists of communication connections between multiple sites for the purposes of transmitting voice, video and data traffic. Any organization with multiple locations or remote/home offices requires some means to allow for interconnectivity between people and shared access to common resources. If not designed properly, a WAN can be difficult to manage and expensive to maintain. WANs frequently struggle with bandwidth issues as new services are deployed and more
diverse locations are added.
Features
• Can cover a global footprint
• Any number of locations can be included
• Typically involve a public carrier
• Can be wired or wireless
• Most are privately used
• The Internet may be used as the backbone
• Variety of speed options
• Multiple circuit and packet technologies
• Multiple protocols
Benefits
• Cost savings and greater efficiency through sharing resources
• Flexibility and mobility in connections to disparate locations
• Less manpower required to maintain a well-designed network
• Less spending through future-proofed deployment
