Should My Business Use LAN or WAN?

Published On February 29, 2020 Published By deltain

When creating a business, there are plenty of considerations you must keep in mind. One such concern is what your networking needs are going to be. We sometimes divide these options up into two main categories: LAN and WAN networks. These might sound rather similar, but they actually differ in ways that are important to how your business functions. No networking option is a one-size-fits-all decision; you’re always going to be on the hunt for the specific solution that matches your needs. Let’s take a look at how LAN and WAN cable networks differ and shed some light on why one may be preferable over the other.

LANs: Explained

LAN is an acronym that stands for local area network. This lets computers and other devices that are in the same vicinity connect to one another, allowing you to share files or complete tasks on the same router or switch. Even printers, desktops, and tablets end up linked to your LAN. It’s the most common kind of network in homes, so if you’re familiar with that, you may already have an idea of what a local area network looks like. Hardwired cables can be used to connect devices, but these days, WiFi is much more prominent in network installations.

The Details on WANs

WAN is another acronym: this one means wide area network. A wide area network is utilized when one needs to set up devices that are physically far away from one another, which is why WAN installations can be so much more complicated than a typical LAN network. A wide area network is essentially a network of LANs, which allows for offices, hospitals, and college campuses to be connected to one another. Unsure of what a WAN looks like? Just look at the biggest one in the world: the Internet. 

What Solution Works For You?

To determine what’s right for you, whether that’s a wide area network or a local area network, take a look at what your business really needs. Small officers and businesses usually only invest in LANs. This ensures that files can be transferred through your office and to other businesses. Larger companies or businesses with multiple branches may need a WAN, allowing them to connect from different offices. WANs provide more widespread connections and are typically run by telecom providers, whereas LANs tend to be privately owned.

Phone System Solutions from Delta Intellicom

Want to learn more about the ways we can help improve your business? Delta Intellicom can satisfy all of your telecommunication needs, whether you need help with your new VoIP system or just want to streamline your existing office phone network. We have served the Maryland, Washington, D.C, Northern Virginia, and Pennsylvania areas for over 20 years and offer an unparalleled customer experience. We have the expertise and products to fulfill all of your phone service and data needs. For more information, contact us online or give us a call at 1-800-946-3358. For more tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.