This key facts covers Advantages and Disadvantages within LAN and WAN for GCSE Computer Science. Revise LAN and WAN in 3.5 Fundamentals of Computer Networks for GCSE Computer Science with 18 exam-style questions and 16 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 11 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Advantages and Disadvantages
LAN Advantages:
- Very fast: Gigabit speeds (1000 Mbps+) are standard
- Low cost: One-time hardware cost, minimal running costs
- Full control: Organization owns and manages everything
- High security: Physical access control, isolated from outside
- Reliable: No dependency on external providers
- Easy to manage: Small scale, centralized administration
LAN Disadvantages:
- Limited range: Only covers single building/campus
- Maintenance responsibility: Organization must fix problems
- Initial setup cost: Need to buy cables, switches, WiFi equipment
- Expertise needed: Requires IT staff to set up and maintain
WAN Advantages:
- Unlimited range: Connect sites globally
- Connects LANs together: Link office in London to office in New York
- Provider maintains: Telecoms company fixes infrastructure issues
- Scalable: Easy to upgrade speed by paying more
- Access to Internet: Billions of devices and resources worldwide
WAN Disadvantages:
- Slower speeds: Limited by distance and shared infrastructure
- High ongoing cost: Monthly rental fees to telecoms providers
- Less reliable: Dependent on third-party infrastructure
- Security risks: Data travels over public infrastructure
- Higher latency: Data takes longer to travel long distances
- No control: Can't fix issues yourself - must wait for provider
Practice questions for LAN and WAN
What does LAN stand for?
State three differences between a LAN and a WAN. [3 marks]