WAN and LAN

WAN

Advantages

It covers large geographical area therefore networks can be made between long distances.

Everyone on that network can access the same data. This avoids problems where some users may have older information than others.

Disadvantage

Setting up the network could be expensive.

Maintaining a network is a full-time job which requires network supervisors and technicians to be employed.

Security is a real issue when many different people have the ability to use information from other computers.

Protection against hackers and viruses adds more complexity and expense.

LAN

Advantages

The basic LAN implementation does not cost too much. It is easy to control and manage the entire LAN as it is available in one small region. It is easy to setup security protocols to protect the LAN users from intruders or hackers. It is easy to share common resources such as printers and internet line among multiple LAN users.

Disadvantages

LAN covers small geographical area. Security issues are big concern as it is easy to have access to programs and data of peers. Special security measures are needed to stop unauthorized access. It is difficult to setup and maintain LAN and requires skilled technicians and network administrators.