WANs vs LANs: Understanding and Comparison| Difference between WAN and LAN​

Build Your Network Knowledge

Explore the key differences between wide and local area networks. This course equips you with foundational networking insight—ideal for students pursuing IT courses or a higher certificate in IT.

What is this course about?

This course introduces you to the essential differences between WANs (Wide Area Networks) and LANs (Local Area Networks), focusing on their purpose, scale, components and real-world application. You will explore the advantages, limitations and technical requirements of each network type, preparing you to make informed decisions in network design and management.

Why take this course on WANs and LANs?

Understanding the contrast between WANs and LANs is fundamental in any IT role. Whether you aim to become a network technician or continue with advanced IT courses, this course gives you a practical edge. It supports the foundation of your higher certificate in IT and prepares you for further specialisation in networking.

People credited with this unit standard are able to explain wide area computer networks (WAN`s), evaluate a wide area network (WAN), explain network administration.

This unit standard is intended to provide fundamental knowledge of the areas covered for those entering the workplace in the area of Data Communications & Networking. As additional knowledge for those wanting to understand the areas covered. People credited with this unit standard are able to explain wide area computer networks (WAN`s), evaluate a wide area network (WAN), explain network administration. The performance of all elements is to a standard that allows for further learning in this area.

Course Content
  • The explanation identifies the components of a WAN and outlines their purpose
  • The explanation identifies the purpose of a WAN
  • The explanation identifies and compares WAN configurations
  • The explanation identifies and compares WAN protocols
  • The explanation identifies and compares WAN transport media
  • The evaluation identifies the method of implementation of the WAN  
  • The evaluation distinguishes categories of the network components, their functions & examples 
  • The evaluation identifies and explains the features and constraints of the network from a functional perspective
  • The evaluation assesses the suitability of the network for its use 
  • The evaluation proposes and compares alternative network designs
 
  • The explanation identifies the tasks involved and outlines their requirements 
  • The explanation outlines, for a range of factors, how response times are affected
  • The explanation outlines the principles of network interconnections
  • The explanation outlines and explains network security administration procedures
  • Network administration documentation is completed
  • Non-accredited: Short course only  
  • Duration: 1h 30m
  • Delivery: Classroom/Online/Blended
  • Access Period: 12 Months 
SpecCon Short Course
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