How to Build a WAN - What is WAN

How to Build a WAN

Building a Wide Area Network, or WAN, involves using a third-party service provider to provision a link to your location. Different WAN technologies are usable depending on your needs and location. For example, an MPLS network can be used to create a single network from multiple physical locations, similar to a VPN. To build a WAN, you need a contract with a service provider and your own networking equipment, such as routers and switches.

Step 1Contact a service provider in your area to see what types of WAN services are offered. Common services are T1 and Frame Relay. Business-class DSL and cable services may also be offered in your area. After a desired service is selected, the service provider installs their equipment at your location and creates a demarcation point.

Step 2Acquire a router and connect the WAN link to it. If the service provider installs a router as part of the WAN, you will still most likely need a separate router to provide access and control for the local area network, or LAN. If the service provider does not provide a router, you must use a router capable of connecting to the WAN circuit. For example, if you purchased a T1 connection, your router must include a T1 interface module.

Related Reading: What Is a WAN Topology?

Step 3Connect the network switch to your router. A network switch aggregates all of the connections on the LAN and connects them to the router, which forwards the appropriate traffic over the WAN connection. The most common switch to router connection type is with one or more Ethernet cables. Depending on your network configuration, your router may include a built-in switch with enough ports to connect all of the devices on the LAN together. However, it is common to have one or more switches in addition to a router.

Things Needed

• Router
• Switch (optional)
• Ethernet cables