Explanation:

Definition: WAN or Wide Area Network is a computer network that covers a large geographic area, such as a city, country, or even the entire world, by connecting multiple smaller networks.

Features of WAN:

- WAN is a geographically dispersed network.
- It is used to connect LANs and other types of networks together, such as MANs or metropolitan area networks.
- It is a high-speed network that can transmit data, voice, and video over long distances.
- It requires special communication protocols and hardware devices to ensure reliable and secure communication over long distances.
- It is typically owned and operated by a telecommunications company or service provider.

Examples of WAN:

- The Internet is the largest WAN in the world, connecting millions of computers and networks around the globe.
- Corporate networks that connect multiple branches or offices across different cities or countries.
- Government networks that connect different agencies and departments across different regions.
- Educational networks that connect different schools, colleges, and universities across different states or countries.

Advantages of WAN:

- It allows for efficient communication and collaboration between different locations and stakeholders.
- It enables businesses to access remote resources and services, such as cloud computing or online storage.
- It provides access to a wider range of information and resources, such as online databases or research materials.
- It allows for remote monitoring and control of different systems and devices, such as security cameras or industrial equipment.

Disadvantages of WAN:

- It can be expensive to set up and maintain, especially for smaller organizations or businesses.
- It can be vulnerable to security breaches and cyber attacks, especially if proper security measures are not in place.
- It can experience slow or intermittent connectivity, especially in areas with poor network coverage or infrastructure.
- It can be difficult to troubleshoot and resolve network issues, especially if different service providers or vendors are involved.