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Visual Networking Overview - Wide Area Networks
Exhibit 3 in the Gallery of Visual Networking - Overview Series

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A Hypothetical Wide Area Network
Hypothetical example of a wide area network (WAN)

Local Area Networks < Prev - Next > Wired Networks

This diagram illustrates a hypothetical wide area network (WAN) configuration that joins LANs in three metropolitan locations. Wide area networks cover a large geographic area like a city, a country or multiple countries. WANs normally connect multiple LANs and other smaller-scale area networks. WANs are built by large telecommunication companies and other corporations using highly-specialized equipment not found in consumer stores. The Internet is an example of a WAN that joins local and metropolitan area networks across most of the world.

Related References - WAN Overview, Introduction to Area Networks
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Background map adapted from graphic obtained with permission from the Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection
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