What is the primary function of a WAN?

The primary function of a Wide Area Network (WAN) is to facilitate communication over a large geographical area. WANs connect different local area networks (LANs) that may be spread across cities, countries, or even continents, allowing devices in different locations to communicate with each other. This is essential for organizations with offices in multiple locations, enabling them to share resources, data, and applications regardless of physical distance.

While local networks like LANs cover smaller areas, such as a single building or campus, WANs are designed specifically to overcome the limitations of distance and provide connectivity over vast spaces. This capability is fundamental for enabling the global connectivity that many businesses and services rely on today.