What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A Local Area Network (LAN) is defined by its ability to connect a group of computers and devices that are in close proximity, typically within a single building or a limited geographic area, such as a home, office, or campus. The primary purpose of a LAN is to enable devices to communicate and share resources, such as files, printers, and internet connections, efficiently and effectively.

A key characteristic of a LAN is that it allows high-speed data transfer and generally features lower latency compared to larger networks. This is because the short distances involved mean that the data does not need to travel across vast distances, as is the case with wider networks. Additionally, LANs can utilize various technologies, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and token ring, to facilitate connectivity within that close-knit environment.

The other choices refer to network types that cover broader scopes, such as Wide Area Networks (WANs) that connect multiple geographical locations or cities, or even the global network of the internet, which encompasses connections across immense distances. Understanding this distinction highlights why the definition of a LAN is centered on a localized arrangement of devices.