A network device designed to forward packets to an external network such as the Internet. Routers are used to direct traffic to a network outside of the one they reside in. However, when routers are used within an enterprise to separate subnetworks, they are called "routers" or possibly "core routers," but not WAN routers. The routers that make up the backbone of the Internet are "core routers." See router, core router and edge router.
(Wide Area Network port) The socket on a network device that is wired to an external network, which is typically the Internet. In the home and small business, a WAN port is an RJ-45 Ethernet port on a router that is wired to a cable or DSL modem. On small routers, the WAN port may be labeled simply "Internet." In the larger enterprise, a WAN port may hook up to a T3 line or other wide area network service. Contrast with LAN port. See RJ-45.
A wide area network (WAN) is a telecommunications network that extends over a large geographical area for the primary purpose of computer networking. Wide area networks are often established with leased telecommunication circuits.
Business, as well as education and government entities use wide area networks to relay data to staff, students, clients, buyers and suppliers from various locations across the world. In essence, this mode of telecommunication allows a business to effectively carry out its daily function regardless of location. The Internet may be considered a WAN.
Similar types of networks are personal area networks (PANs), local area networks (LANs), campus area networks (CANs), or metropolitan area networks (MANs) which are usually limited to a room, building, campus or specific metropolitan area, respectively.
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