Networks are often classified according to geographical size or space.
A LANLocal area network. A network of computers that covers a small area, eg a school or college. is a network that covers a small geographical area. They are normally contained within a single building or cluster of buildings. Since the distances involved are small, a direct physical connection (for example using cables or wi-fi) is possible.
LANs can be found in homes, schools and small businesses.
A WANWide area network. A network that spans across a building, buildings or even countries, eg the internet. is a network that covers a large geographical area. A WAN could cover a city, a country or even several countries or continents.
These networks make use of a range of communication infrastructure including public telephone lines, undersea cables and communication satellites.
LANs, on the other hand, connect via ethernet cables or wi-fi. The internet is an example of a WAN. A WAN is often a collection of connected LANs.