Differences Between LAN, MAN, and WAN: JKSSB MockTest
Computer networks are classified based on their size and geographical area. For the JKSSB Computer Awareness section, understanding the difference between LAN, MAN, and WAN is essential.
In this guide, we will cover:
- What is LAN?
- What is MAN?
- What is WAN?
- Key Differences between LAN, MAN, and WAN
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- FAQs for JKSSB
What is LAN?
LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that connects computers and devices within a small geographical area.
- Examples: Home network, Office network, School computer lab
- Usually owned and managed by a single organization
- Uses Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi
Features of LAN:
- Covers a small area (up to a few kilometers)
- High speed (up to 1 Gbps or more)
- Low cost to set up and maintain
- Easy to manage and secure
What is MAN?
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) covers a larger area than LAN but smaller than WAN. It usually connects computers in a city or large campus.
- Example: Network connecting all branches of a bank in a city
- Often managed by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or organizations
- Uses fiber optic cables and wireless connections
Features of MAN:
- Covers a city or large town (5 to 50 kilometers)
- Medium speed (Typically 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps)
- Higher cost compared to LAN
- Provides city-wide connectivity
What is WAN?
WAN (Wide Area Network) is the largest network, connecting computers and networks across countries or continents.
- Example: The Internet is the biggest WAN
- Managed by telecom companies or governments
- Uses satellite links, telephone lines, fiber optics
Features of WAN:
- Covers large geographical areas (nationwide or global)
- Lower speed compared to LAN and MAN (10 Mbps to 100 Mbps for normal users)
- Very high cost to build and maintain
- More complex management and security issues
Key Differences Between LAN, MAN, and WAN
| Feature | LAN | MAN | WAN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Local Area Network | Metropolitan Area Network | Wide Area Network |
| Coverage Area | Small (Room, Office, Building) | Medium (City, Campus) | Large (Country, World) |
| Ownership | Private (Home/Office) | Shared or Private | Public or Private |
| Speed | High (Up to 1 Gbps or more) | Medium (100 Mbps to 1 Gbps) | Lower (10 Mbps to 100 Mbps) |
| Cost | Low | Moderate | High |
| Example | Home Wi-Fi, Office LAN | City-wide bank network | Internet |
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of LAN:
- High-speed data transfer
- Low installation cost
- Easy to manage and secure
- File sharing and resource sharing (printers, scanners)
Disadvantages of LAN:
- Limited to small area
- Need for technical setup
Advantages of MAN:
- Connects multiple LANs within a city
- Good for large organizations with multiple locations
Disadvantages of MAN:
- Higher installation cost than LAN
- More complex maintenance
Advantages of WAN:
- Connects countries and continents
- Enables global communication
- Used for the Internet, online banking, email
Disadvantages of WAN:
- Very high cost
- Slower speed compared to LAN
- Security risks (hacking, viruses)
Examples of LAN, MAN, WAN
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| LAN | Office computers connected by Wi-Fi |
| MAN | Jammu City public Wi-Fi network |
| WAN | Internet, Airtel Network connecting India to the world |
Uses of LAN, MAN, WAN
LAN Uses:
- File sharing in offices
- Gaming in home networks
- Printing using shared printers
MAN Uses:
- Connecting schools and colleges in a city
- City-wide surveillance systems
WAN Uses:
- Global banking transactions
- Sending emails across the world
- Accessing websites and online services
Important Terms for JKSSB
- Router: Connects different networks
- Switch: Connects devices within a LAN
- IP Address: Unique identification for devices on a network
- Firewall: Protects networks from unauthorized access
- Bandwidth: Data transfer capacity
FAQs: LAN, MAN, WAN – JKSSB
Q1: What is the full form of LAN?
Answer: Local Area Network
Q2: Which is the largest network?
Answer: WAN (Wide Area Network)
Q3: Give an example of MAN.
Answer: Cable TV network in a city
Q4: What is the main difference between LAN and WAN?
Answer: LAN is for small areas; WAN is for global connectivity.
Q5: Why is LAN faster than WAN?
Answer: LAN covers a small area with high-speed connections, WAN uses long-distance links.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between LAN, MAN, and WAN is crucial for the JKSSB Computer Awareness section. These networks form the backbone of communication in today’s world.
Prepare these points carefully and relate them to real-life examples to strengthen your exam preparation.
All the best for your JKSSB exam!
