TechTalk

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Is a Metro Ethernet Network right for your business?

When looking to build or update your business network, you want to ensure you find a cost-effective, reliable, and secure solution. But where to start? In this TechTalk post, you’ll learn about the different types of networks in order to determine if Metro Ethernet is best suited for your company. 

MAN, LAN, and WAN 

LAN, MAN, and WAN are different types of computer networks. The main differentiator of each network is geographical coverage and scale. Here’s a brief breakdown of each:

LAN (Local Area Network) 

A LAN connects computers and network devices within one area, like an individual office, a company’s entire building, or a college campus. LANs are typically used by one organization and allow users to share the Internet, files, and common devices such as printers or projectors. LANs can be wired (using Ethernet cables) or wireless (using Wi-Fi).

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) 

A MAN connects multiple LANs and covers a larger metropolitan area, typically covering a city or a region. Despite the name, it does not have to be an urban area, it may be a city, multiple cities or towns, or any large geographical area. MANs are often used by organizations that have multiple offices or branches in different locations.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

Similar to a MAN, a WAN Connects individual LANs but is not confined by geography. WANs are typically used to connect devices and locations across long distances. 

In summary, the main difference between LAN, MAN, and WAN lies in their geographical coverage and scale. LANs are used for connecting devices within a limited area, MANs are used for connecting LANs within a metropolitan area, and WANs are used for connecting LANs and MANs across long distances.

What is Metro Ethernet?

Metro Ethernet provides high-speed connectivity within a metropolitan area or throughout a larger geographic area, such as DQE’s WAN. Metro Ethernet is scalable, secure, and reliable for large enterprises and is typically delivered by a local or regional provider.  It is used by organizations to connect their LANs to the Internet. Metro Ethernet enables companies to connect different branches, buildings, or offices. DQE follows MEF guidelines and must adhere to international standards determined by the technology non-profit MEF. 

Benefits 

Metro Ethernet also provides scalability to your organization, so if you are growing and need more office space, you don’t need to worry about connectivity, regardless if your new offices are down the street or in a city miles away.

With Metro Ethernet, you have dedicated connectivity with speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps and receive strong security through a private network. Not only can you rely on its security, but you can also rely on its uptime. For example, with DQE’s Metro Ethernet, a Custom-built, self-healing core ring architecture maximizes dependability. in the event of a fiber cut, by detecting and redirecting service to maintain a continuous network.

Is Metro Ethernet Right for You?

With this understanding, you may still be wondering if Metro Ethernet is the right solution for you. The best way to determine if this is the right way to provide a network connection for your offices. But you don’t have to decide on your own. Services, like those provided by DQE, have the local experts and knowledge to deliver exactly what your business needs. At DQE, you won’t get a cookie-cutter solution. We take the time to learn your company’s specific requirements, create a customized solution that meets your needs, and provide local on-call customer service. 

Contact us to learn how DQE Metro Ethernet can help your organization meet its goals.

Tags: local area network, metro ethernet, metropolitan area network, wide area network