Difference between LAN and a WLAN

LAN

LAN, stands for Local Area Network and is a computer network to connect large areas like an office or a building.

WLAN, stands for Wireless Local Area Network and is similar to LAN. It is relatively new and getting popularity now a days.

Following are the important differences between LAN and WLAN.

Sr. No.	Key	LAN	WLAN
1	Stands for	LAN stands for Local Area Network.	WLAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network.
2	Connection Type	LAN connections includes wired as well as wireless connection technologies.	WLAN connections are completely wireless technology based.
3	Coverage	LAN covers a large area like building.	WLAN slso covers a large regions like building, office etc.
4	Cost	LAN connections are less expensive, more secure that wireless connections of WLAN.	WLAN connections are more expensive and considered less secure than wired connections.
5	Complexity	Installation of LAN is relatively cheaper but complex to install. It requires Routers, switches to connect wires.	Installation of WLAN is costly but simple. Routers, switches are not needed to connect wires.
6	Performance	LAN provides good performance and impact of weather is limited.	WLAN provides high performance but may get impacted in bad weather.
7	Mobility	LAN has limited mobility. LAN needs ethernet to connect devices.	WLAN is highly mobile in nature. No ethernet is required to connect devices to WLAN.
8	Interruption	LAN connections can not be interrupted easily.	WLAN connections can be interrupted easily.
9	Examples	Desktop, laptops connected to LAN in an office.	Desktop, laptops connected on Wifi or hotspot based networks.

Updated on 28-Nov-2019 11:28:14