A global area network (GAN) refers to a network composed of different interconnected networks that cover an unlimited geographical area. The term is loosely synonymous with Internet, which is considered a global area network.
Unlike local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN), GANs cover a large geographical area.
Because a GAN is used to support mobile communication across a number of wireless LANs, the key challenge for any GAN is transferring user communications from one local coverage area to the next.
The most sought-after GAN type is a broadband GAN. The broadband GAN is a global satellite Internet network that uses portable terminals for telephony. The terminals connect laptop computers located in remote areas to broadband Internet.
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