LAN, MAN, and WAN are different types of computer networks that connect devices over different areas. A LAN (Local Area Network) is a small network that covers a small area, like a home, office, or school. It lets devices like computers and printers share information quickly in that small space. A MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) is bigger than a LAN and covers a city or large campus. It connects several smaller networks in that area.

A WAN (Wide Area Network) is the biggest type, covering very large areas like countries or even the whole world. The internet is the most famous example of a WAN. Each type of network gets bigger in size and area covered, from LAN to MAN to WAN.

LAN

LAN stands for local area network. It is a group of network devices that allow communication between various connected devices. Private ownership has control over the local area network rather than the public. LAN has a shorter propagation delay than MAN as well as WAN. It covers smaller areas such as colleges, schools, hospitals, and so on.

MAN

MAN stands for metropolitan area network. It covers a larger area than LAN such as small towns, cities, etc. MAN connects two or more computers that reside within the same or completely different cities. MAN is expensive and should or might not be owned by one organization.

WAN

WAN stands for wide area network. It covers a large area than LAN as well as a MAN such as country/continent etc. WAN is expensive and should or might not be owned by one organization. PSTN or satellite medium is used for wide area networks.