wide-area network

noun
1.
a computer network that spans a relatively large geographical area.
Also called WAN.
British Dictionary definitions for wide area network

wide area network

noun
1.
(computing) a network of computers interconnected over large distances, often by optical fibres or microwave communications WAN
wide area network in Science
wide area network
  (wīd)   
See WAN.
wide area network in Technology
networking
(WAN) A network, usually constructed with serial lines, extending over distances greater than one kilometre.
Compare local area network, metropolitan area network.
(1994-11-24)