Metropolitan area network example

A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a type of network that connects several local area networks (LANs) within a large city or metropolitan area, enabling them to communicate and share resources. A practical example of a MAN is the network infrastructure used by a large hospital system spread across a city. This hospital system may have multiple facilities, including the main hospital, outpatient clinics, laboratories, and administrative offices, all located in different parts of the city.

By using a MAN, the hospital can connect all these facilities, allowing them to share vital information quickly and securely. For instance, patient records stored at the main hospital can be accessed by doctors at an outpatient clinic miles away. The MAN supports real-time communication between doctors, nurses, and other staff, ensuring that critical information is available when needed.

The MAN in this example might use fiber optic cables to provide high-speed connections, which are essential for transmitting large files like medical images (X-rays, MRIs) between locations. Additionally, the network can support video conferencing, enabling remote consultations between specialists located in different parts of the city.

Overall, this hospital system benefits from the MAN’s ability to deliver fast, reliable, and secure communication, which is crucial for providing efficient and coordinated patient care across multiple locations within the metropolitan area.