Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN?
A LAN is small, fast, single-owned, and locally controlled; a WAN spans large distances, is slower, and is run by multiple service providers.
* A LAN is small, fast, and locally owned; a WAN is large and slower, run by multiple providers, and connects LANs together. *
| Characteristic | LAN | WAN |
|---|---|---|
| Geographic scope | Small (building/campus) | Large (cities/countries) |
| Speed | High (1-100+ Gbps) | Lower (relative to LAN) |
| Administration | Single organization | Multiple providers |
| Cost | Lower (you own it) | Higher (leased lines) |
LAN = Local Area Network
- Your home or office network
- You control the equipment
WAN = Wide Area Network
- Connects LANs together
- Often uses ISP services
Memory tip: Local vs Wide — the L and the W tell you the scale.
Go deeper:
Wide area network (Wikipedia) — defines WAN by geographic scope and explicitly contrasts it with LAN.- Local area network (Wikipedia) — the LAN side: small, fast, locally-managed/single-owned.