WAN technologies and strategies are constantly evolving. While dial-up, ISDN, and Frame Relay were once widely used, they are now rarely used and considered obsolete. As you can see in the image below, coaxial cable, fiber optics, wireless, PSTN lines, cellular networks, and satellite connections are all examples of current and emerging WAN technologies.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial technology, commonly known as coaxial cable is a type of electrical cable that is commonly deployed for cable television (CATV), internet services, and some Ethernet connections. Coaxial cables offer reliable signal transmission over longer distances and are resistant to electromagnetic interference.
However, they have limited bandwidth compared to fiber optics and other more modern communication technologies and may not support extremely high-speed data transfers. They are still a popular choice in some areas but are gradually being replaced by fiber optic and wireless technologies for higher data rates.
Fiber Optics
Fiber optics is a high-speed communication technology that uses light signals to transmit data through thin, flexible glass fibers. It's widely employed in telecommunications networks, data centers, and internet connections, offering high-speed data transmission over long distances.
Fiber optics is also used for local communication within enterprises. While it boasts advantages like high bandwidth, minimal signal loss, and resistance to interference, it can be costly to install and maintain. Accessibility may also be limited in some areas, impacting affordability and availability.
Wireless
Wireless technology uses radio signals to connect devices over extended distances, eliminating the need for physical cables. It employs a wireless communication architecture that includes base stations or access points. It's commonly deployed in remote or hard-to-reach areas, providing flexibility and scalability. Some pros include mobility and cost-effectiveness, but it may have limited coverage, potential security concerns, and variable performance due to interference or signal degradation over distance.
PSTN Lines
PSTN lines use traditional telephone lines to establish connections. They have been widely deployed, especially in remote or rural areas with limited digital infrastructure. PSTN lines offer simplicity and reliability but are substantially slower for data transmission than modern digital methods.
This makes PSTN lines less efficient for data traffic and more suitable for voice communication, especially when other options are unavailable. While they are becoming less common due to digital alternatives, they remain essential in some regions with limited connectivity options.
Cellular Networks
Cellular networks, a part of WAN technology, use a distributed architecture with cell towers and base stations. Devices communicate wirelessly through these towers. They are widespread, especially in urban areas, providing broad coverage. While cellular networks are widely available and mobile, they may suffer from congestion, signal loss in remote areas, and potential security concerns.
Satellite Connections
Satellite connections in WAN technology involve communication via satellites orbiting Earth. They are commonly used in remote or geographically isolated areas with impractical terrestrial connections. These connections have the advantage of offering wide coverage but suffer from higher latency and cost compared to other options.
While suitable for specific scenarios like rural areas or disaster recovery, they may not be the first choice due to inherent drawbacks, including latency caused by the signal's travel through space and vulnerability to environmental conditions like heavy rainfall.