When it comes to wireless routers, LAN and WAN are two important terms that you should be familiar with. These acronyms stand for Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN).
What is LAN?
A LAN refers to a network that connects devices within a limited area, such as a home, office, or building. In the context of a wireless router, the LAN is the network created by the router that allows devices within its range to connect and communicate with each other. This includes devices like laptops, smartphones, printers, and smart home devices.
The LAN provides a secure and private network for local communication, allowing devices to share resources, such as files and printers, and access the internet through the router.
What is WAN?
In contrast, a WAN refers to a network that spans a larger geographical area, typically connecting multiple LANs together. The WAN is often provided by an internet service provider (ISP) and allows devices within the LAN to access the internet and communicate with devices outside the local network.
When you connect your wireless router to the ISP’s modem, it establishes a connection to the WAN, enabling devices within the LAN to access the internet.
Conclusion
In summary, LAN and WAN are essential components of wireless routers. The LAN provides a local network for devices to connect and communicate with each other, while the WAN allows devices within the LAN to access the internet and communicate with devices outside the local network. Understanding these concepts will help you make the most out of your wireless router and ensure seamless connectivity for all your devices.