What distinguishes a Wide Area Network (WAN) from a Local Area Network?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is characterized by its ability to connect computers and devices over large geographic areas, which can span cities, countries, or even continents. This wide reach allows organizations to maintain connectivity across numerous locations, facilitating communication, data sharing, and resource access among users who may be far apart from one another. This contrasts sharply with a Local Area Network (LAN), which is limited to a much smaller area, like a single building or a campus. The key distinguishing feature of a WAN is its broad geographic coverage, enabling it to link various LANs and provide access to the internet and other remote networks.

While some may think a WAN's mobility is strictly tied to wireless connections, it actually encompasses both wired and wireless technologies, and focuses primarily on the scale of connectivity rather than the type of medium used. The ability to connect multiple sites over vast distances is the essence of what defines a WAN, making the correct choice clear.