What is a WAN port on a router
A router has a special connection point called a WAN port. The entire internet works through a router, and that router contains this connection point. The WAN port is the place where we connect to our internet. A WAN port functions as a bridge between the router and the internet.
The ISP provides a modem, and the cable coming from the modem is connected to the router’s WAN port. This port distributes the internet across the entire network. If this port is not available, all the devices can communicate with each other but will not have access to the internet.
The WAN port is displayed with a different color and label on routers so that the user can easily recognize it. It is usually blue in color.
The WAN port transmits internet data to the router, and the router transfers this data to other devices. The data can be transferred at speeds up to 1 gigabit per second. If the WAN port encounters any error, the network connection is disrupted. In such a condition, the local network continues to work.
Difference Between WAN and LAN
There are two types of networks in the internet world: LAN and WAN. Their purpose is to connect devices.
A LAN network covers a limited area, such as homes or offices. It works with a combination of computers, printers, and other devices and shares the internet connection.
On the other hand, a WAN network is spread on a large scale. It could cover a city, a country, or the entire world. The Internet itself is an example of a WAN network.
How the WAN Port Works
First of all, the internet provider’s cable line comes to the modem, and the modem converts these signals for the router. The partitioning of the signal is done here.
In the second phase, the modem’s output cable is connected to the WAN port.
A router receives a signal through the WAN and divides the data among different devices. The process of distribution is done through the LAN port and Wi-Fi.
Check your internet step by step if it is not working.
Types of WAN Ports
Ethernet WAN Port
This is a commonly used port, and it is found in every home or office router. It has an RJ45 connector that is used for connecting a cable or fiber. Ethernet provides a stable and fast connection.
Fiber WAN Port – SFP
This port is found in commercial routers. It is recognized as an SFP port, and it can be connected using fiber optics. It provides a stable internet connection. The fiber line transfers signals using light rays.
4G/5G WAN
This port is found in routers that use mobile internet. It has a SIM slot or USB port. This port is useful in areas where wired internet is not available.
Why the WAN Port Is Important
The WAN port is important in modern networks because it connects our local network to the global internet. A WAN port acts as a bridge, making this connection possible between two networks.
It keeps the WAN separate from the LAN network. This separation maintains security. Internet signals do not directly enter your network but pass through the router and firewall.
The router receives data through the WAN port and controls it. The firewall protects against viruses and hacking. It helps protect our data and network.
The WAN port is connected through a public IP address, while the LAN devices are assigned private IPs. The router decides the routing between them.
WAN ports organize data. The system inside the router distributes bandwidth so that a single device cannot control it. In this way, a continuous balance is maintained.
WAN Port and IP Addresses
The internet connection works through the WAN port and IP address. Both elements ensure that data reaches its destination safely. Our ISP provides a public IP address to our router.
Whenever we open a website, it communicates with a public IP address. The public IP is directly assigned to the router through the WAN port.
A router has a separate system that provides private IP addresses through LAN ports and Wi-Fi-connected devices such as computers, mobile phones, and TVs. Examples of these addresses include 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.0.2.
When You Need Multiple WAN Ports
It is difficult to depend on a single internet connection in modern networking. Large businesses, factories, and online service providers require multiple WAN ports and routers.
The balance of the Load
Some routers have a dual WAN or multi-WAN feature that provides more than one internet connection. Internet traffic is divided across the multiple connections to reduce the load on a single line.
Backup connection
Sometimes, one internet connection goes offline due to maintenance. The failover feature prevents the network from going completely offline. The router automatically activates the second WAN line.
Continuity of business
In schools, colleges, offices, and large buildings, connectivity is important, and multi-WAN is essential. This system ensures that there is no interruption in networking.
