WAN Vs WLAN: Everything to Know Before Choosing

WAN vs WLAN, how well do you know them? The internet has become an essential part of our daily lives, connecting us to information, entertainment, and each other. To access the internet, we need a network that connects our devices to the internet service provider (ISP). Two common network technologies used for this purpose are WAN and WLAN. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between WAN and WLAN, how they work, and their impact on internet connectivity.

WAN vs WLAN: What are they?

WAN, which stands for Wide Area Network, is a type of network that connects devices over a large geographic area, spanning different cities, states, or even countries. WANs are primarily used to connect remote locations to a central network, like a company headquarters or a data center. WAN technologies include leased lines, satellite links, and VPNs, and are used by businesses and organizations to provide employees with access to resources and data from any location. Similarly, ISPs use WANs to provide internet connectivity to their customers.

Conversely, WLAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network and is a type of network that connects devices within a limited geographic area, like a home, office, or campus. WLANs use wireless technology, such as Wi-Fi, to connect devices to the network. WLANs are commonly used for internet connectivity, allowing devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets to access the internet without the need for cables. Additionally, WLANs can be used for file sharing, printing, and other local network services.

How do WAN and WLAN work?

WANs typically use a combination of wired and wireless technologies to connect devices. For example, a business with multiple locations may use leased lines or fiber optic cables to connect its different locations to a central data center. The data center may then connect to the internet through a high-speed connection, such as a T1 or T3 line. VPNs can also be used to securely connect remote locations over the internet.

WLANs, on the other hand, use wireless technology such as Wi-Fi to connect devices to the network. Wi-Fi operates using radio waves, allowing devices within range of the access point to connect wirelessly. WLANs may use a single access point or multiple access points to provide coverage across a larger area. 

How do WAN and WLAN affect your internet connection?

WAN and WLAN are two distinct technologies with unique capabilities that can have a significant impact on internet connectivity. A WAN, which operates across a vast geographic area, may experience diminished internet speeds due to network congestion, the distance between devices, and interferences from multiple networks. In contrast, a WLAN provides wireless connectivity within a confined area but may encounter connectivity issues due to network congestion and interference from other wireless devices. As a result, users may experience a decrease in network performance, dropped connections, and slower speeds.

Recommendations for Improving Internet Connectivity

If you are experiencing issues with your internet connectivity, there are several steps you can take to improve your network performance:

Upgrade your hardware: If your router or modem is outdated, upgrading to newer hardware can improve your network speed and reliability. Consider upgrading to a router that supports higher-end Wi-Fi technologies, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax.

Optimize your network settings: Adjusting your router settings can also improve network performance. For example, you can change the wireless channel to reduce interference from other networks or enable Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize certain types of traffic.

Check for network congestion: If multiple devices are using the network at the same time, it can cause network congestion and slow down your internet speed. Consider limiting the number of devices or using QoS settings to prioritize certain types of traffic.

Consider a WAN or WLAN upgrade: If your network performance is still not meeting your needs, consider upgrading to a faster WAN connection or installing additional access points to improve WLAN coverage.

Conclusion

WAN vs WLAN, how to choose? They are two different network technologies used for connecting devices to the internet and each other. WANs are used for connecting devices over a large geographic area, while WLANs are used for connecting devices within a limited area wirelessly.

If you are still looking for better wan solutions, the RG-EG210G-E Cloud-Managed Router will be a robust and versatile solution for you. Its advanced features and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for businesses and organizations. One of the standout features of this router is its cloud management capabilities, allowing for easy remote management and monitoring. Additionally, the RG-EG210G-E supports VPN technologies such as IPsec and SSL, providing secure connectivity for remote workers and branch offices. The router also supports load balancing, which can help distribute network traffic evenly across multiple WAN links, improving network performance and stability.