A Metropolitan Area Network covers a city or metropolitan region. It is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN. A city government might use a MAN to connect offices, schools, and libraries. A cable company uses a MAN to deliver internet and TV to homes. A university uses a MAN to connect campuses.

MANs use fiber optic rings, microwave links, or leased lines. They often run at high speeds. They may be owned by a single organization or by a telecom carrier. MANs connect LANs within a city and link them to WANs for long-distance connectivity.

MAN characteristics

• City-sized: covers a metropolitan area
• High speed: fiber or microwave
• Owned by one entity or a carrier
• Connects LANs within a city
• Links to WANs for long distance

MANs are critical infrastructure. They connect hospitals, government buildings, and businesses. They enable smart city applications like traffic management and public Wi-Fi. The MAN is the city's nervous system. It is invisible but essential.