Factors that determine if a communication system is a LAN or a WAN?

Answer 1

The main difference between LAN, MAN and WAN is the scope and coverage of the networks. LAN (Local area network) is usually used to connect computers in smaller distances such as in a building or in offices. They use various topologies such as bus topology, ring topology, star typology etc to connect the computers and share information only among the computers connected in LAN. A Metropolitan Network covers larger coverage than LAN and is usually used for connecting a city rather than single organization. A Wide Area Network is collection of networks or many LANS. The perfect example of WAN is internet which connects thousands and millions of networks. Another factor which distinguishes between LAN, MAN and WAN is that LAN and MAN are owned by certain entities such as government, educational institutions or organizations whereas WAN (i.e. Internet) is not owned by anyone.

I don't like to think of LANs and WANs in terms of distance. I think of them more in terms of the equipment used. When you're using routers and switches and other networking equipment that you own, its your LAN. You manage it, you're in control of it, you fix it when it breaks. A WAN on the other hand, means you're using someone else's equipment, like an ISP. Your ISP manages the WAN, they control it, they fix it when it breaks. You don't have access to the routers and switches and other equipment on a WAN.

Answer 2

Generally a LAN/MAN/WAN may use similar connection media (cable). Therefore, the difference between them is going to be the distance involved, and the protocols used to communicate or transfer packets between nodes.

Answer 3

size

distance

structure

ownership

Answer 4

Basically there is only one factor, it's geographical area covered by the network.