A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a type of computer network that connects multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) within a geographic region of the size of a metropolitan area. The size of a MAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a Wide Area Network (WAN) . A MAN can be used to interconnect LANs in a city into a single larger network, which may then also offer efficient connection to a WAN. It can also be used to describe the interconnection of several LANs in a metropolitan area through the use of point-to-point connections between them. A well-designed MAN system will have redundant links between locations. The backbone of a MAN can be made up of interconnected LANs, and it can use a variety of access technologies, such as wireless, fiber-optic, or copper-based connections, to provide connectivity to different devices and networks. The size of a MAN usually ranges from 5 kilometers to 50 kilometers.
A MAN can be used in several different ways, including:
- Providing high-speed connectivity to users in a metropolitan area.
- Interconnecting resources within one geographic region.
- Connecting different office sites within a city.
- Linking different businesses.
- Running an efficient government.
In summary, a MAN is a computer network that connects multiple LANs within a geographic region of the size of a metropolitan area. It is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN and can be used to interconnect LANs in a city into a single larger network.
