2. What is the fundamental distinction between a MAN and a WAN?

Answer 1

The fundamental distinction between a MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) and a WAN (Wide Area Network) lies in their geographical coverage and scope.

1. Geographical Coverage:
- MAN: A MAN covers a larger geographical area than a Local Area Network (LAN) but smaller than a WAN. It typically spans a city or metropolitan area, connecting multiple LANs across different locations within that area.
- WAN: A WAN covers a larger area, such as a country, continent, or even globally. It connects multiple networks across wide geographic distances, often spanning multiple cities or countries.

2. Scope:
- MAN: A MAN is designed to interconnect various LANs and can be privately owned or operated by service providers. It provides high-speed communication within a specific metropolitan area and is usually restricted to a certain region or locality.
- WAN: A WAN connects multiple LANs or MANs together, providing long-distance communication over a large-scale network infrastructure. It allows for communication between different regions, branches, or even countries. WANs are typically owned and operated by telecommunications companies or internet service providers.

In summary, the key distinction is that a MAN covers a smaller area like a city or metropolitan area, while a WAN is designed to span larger distances, connecting multiple LANs or MANs across wider regions or even globally.