|  |  | Overview
This chapter introduces the various protocols and technologies used in wide-area network (WAN) environments. You will learn about the basics of WANs, including common WAN technologies, types of wide-area services, encapsulation formats, and link options. In this chapter, you also will learn about point-to-point links, circuit switching, packet switching, virtual circuits, dialup services, and WAN devices.
| Threaded Case Study
Washington Project: WAN Implementation
The Washington School District WAN should connect all school and administrative offices with the district office for the purpose of delivering data. The information presented in this chapter will help you understand and design a district WAN that connects all the schools and administrative offices.