What do the words "network" and "WAN" mean?

Answer by  Quual (161)

A network is a series of points connected by a means of communication. A computer network is a series of computers that can transfer information between them. WAN Wide area network: A network that connects multiple LANs to each each. LAN Local area network: A series of interconnected computers in the same general are.

Answer by  DrHarris (508)

A network is simply a group of computers that are connected to each other in one of many ways. This network is likely connected to a router that connects the whole network to some other one, typically the Internet. WAN, or "Wide Area Network", is simply this external network the router connects to. Usually, a WAN is the Internet.