WAN port definition
A WAN port is the socket on a router that’s wired to an external network. WAN ports are used for establishing a connection with wide area networks like the internet. Small-scale networks (e.g., home offices or small businesses) typically use an RJ-45 Ethernet port. RJ-45 plugs and sockets look like large telephone plugs and sockets.
See also: WAN aggregation,
How does a WAN port work?
- The ISP (internet service provider) supplies a modem — but for the internet to work across your entire home network, you need to use a router. A WAN port is a small port on the back of a router.
- One end of the ethernet cable plugs into the router via the WAN port, and the other plugs into the modem.
- The router shares the internet connection with your local network devices (e.g., computers, cell phones, or printers).
Where to look for the WAN port?
You’ll find the WAN port at the back of your router or modem. The WAN port is usually separate from the LAN ports and is often labeled “WAN,” “Internet,” or sometimes “WLAN.” It may be colored differently (often blue) to distinguish it from the other ports.
Why do you need a WAN port?
A WAN port connects your router to the internet so you can access online services. It also allows your router to share the internet connection with devices on your local network.
WAN port use cases
- 1.A business expanding beyond a single location. The WAN port connects branch offices to the central network and gives access to shared resources and the internet.
- 2.Home users setting up high-speed internet. The WAN port connects the home router to the ISP’s modem to provide high-speed internet to multiple devices.
- 3.A company adding a backup internet connection. The WAN port connects a secondary internet line and provides a failover connection in case the primary one goes down.
- 4.Remote workers using a dedicated VPN router. The WAN port links the VPN router to the internet, securing the employees’ connection to the company’s network.
- 5.A hotel or cafe providing guest Wi-Fi. The WAN port connects the router to the internet to allow businesses to offer Wi-Fi to guests while managing their own network.
- 6.A gaming cafe optimizing internet performance. The WAN port connects the router to high-speed internet and ensures a smooth gaming experience for customers.
- 7.A university connecting multiple campuses. The WAN port links campus networks to share resources and provide internet access across multiple locations.