A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a type of network that covers a larger geographic area than a Local Area Network (LAN) but is smaller than a Wide Area Network (WAN). A MAN typically spans a city or a large campus and can serve as a high-speed network to allow sharing of regional resources.
Here are some key characteristics and details about MAN:
Geographic Range: A MAN typically covers a geographic range of between 5 and 50 kilometers, often used to connect multiple LANs within a city or metropolitan area.
Data Rates: A MAN provides data rates equivalent to or higher than a LAN, which means it can handle a substantial amount of data traffic.
Ownership: A MAN might be owned and operated by a single organization, but it usually is used by many individuals and organizations. For instance, a city might have a MAN that’s used by various entities within the city.
Technologies Used: Common technologies used in a MAN include:
- DQDB (Distributed Queue Dual Bus): A standard for MANs.
- ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode): A technology capable of transferring voice, video, and data through private and public networks.
- FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface): Uses optical fiber to transport data.
- SMDS (Switched Multi-megabit Data Service): A high-speed, packet-based public data network service.
Functionality: A MAN can be used for various purposes, such as offering internet connectivity, telephone services, and cable television services within the metropolitan area. It can also interconnect various smaller networks within the city.
Cost: Establishing a MAN can be expensive, especially if laying out new cables and infrastructure. However, the cost can be justified if it’s going to serve a significant number of users or if it’s crucial for business operations within the region.
Latency: Due to the limited geographic scope compared to WANs, MANs generally have lower latency.
Maintenance: A MAN requires regular maintenance, especially since it serves a large number of users and might be spanning vast distances across a city. Regular upgrades might also be necessary to handle increasing data traffic and to implement new technologies.
Overall, a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is crucial for providing high-speed connectivity across larger areas like cities, ensuring that businesses, government entities, and residents can access the digital resources they need efficiently and effectively.