Computersight -

There are a number of differences between LAN and WAN networks. Here are a few:

Geographical

WAN stand for Wide Area Network, and is used to refer to those networks that are not limited to a single building, site or location. LAN networks stand for Local Area Networks. Essentially, these are smaller networks, usually limited to a single site or location.

Data Transfer Rate

The data transfer rate is one of the big differences between LAN and WAN networks. LAN networks are faster than WAN, with transfer speeds up to 10 gb.

Network Topology

The network topology of LAN and WAN differ. LAN is a peer to peer network where resources are shared between terminals. WANs are actually more client to server based, with ISPs and central servers.

Cost

LAN networks are cheaper than WAN. They require less hardware, and also do not rely on leased lines.

Access

LAN networks, will more likely be password protected. They will have password validation, and possibly user-rights with a network administrator.  The WAN, will likely not have these.  On a LAN hardware resources are shared, while this is not so much the case with a WAN.

Connections

There are differences between LAN and WAN connections. Ethernet is a common type of LAN, which is used for smaller networks. WANs do not use Ethernet, but rely on other forms of connection.

Those are the main differences you will find between LAN and WAN networks. If there are others I can add, please let me know and I will do so.