AQA GCSE · Question 14.2 · Fundamentals of computer networks
Describe two differences between a Local Area Network (LAN) and a Wide Area Network (WAN).
How to approach this question
Think about the names themselves: "Local" vs "Wide". This should give you the first major difference. For the second difference, consider who owns and manages the hardware (cables, routers) that makes up the network. Is it the organisation using it, or a third party?
Full Answer
LANs and WANs are two primary types of computer networks, and they differ in several key aspects:
1. **Geographical Scope:** This is the most fundamental difference. A **LAN (Local Area Network)** is confined to a small, limited geographical area like a single office building, a school, or a home. A **WAN (Wide Area Network)** spans a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs together over cities, countries, or even continents. The internet is the largest example of a WAN.
2. **Ownership of Infrastructure:** The hardware and cabling for a **LAN** are usually privately owned and maintained by the organization that uses it. For a **WAN**, the infrastructure that connects the different sites (such as fibre optic cables, satellite links, or telephone lines) is typically leased from a public telecommunications provider (like BT or Virgin Media).
Common mistakes
✗ Simply stating the names without explaining them (e.g., "one is local, one is wide").
✗ Confusing the characteristics (e.g., saying a LAN is larger than a WAN).
✗ Giving differences that are not fundamental (e.g., "a LAN uses Ethernet" - a WAN can also use Ethernet).
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