Networking Worlds Collide As 10-Gbit Ethernet LAN Enters The WAN

摘要

Throughout their existence, the local-area network (LAN) and the wide-area network (WAN) have remained separate, complementary entities. Their distinct cost/performance structures were defined by the nature of their application. Broadly stated, the LAN took care of intersys-tem communication within a building or complex, while the WAN facilitated distance requirements ranging from a couple of km to 40 km and beyond. Their roles were clear, and never the two should meet.