What type of network connects computers in a limited geographical area such as a school?

A local area network, commonly referred to as a LAN, is specifically designed to connect computers and devices within a limited geographical area, such as a school, office, or home. LANs facilitate high-speed data transfer and communication among connected devices, allowing users to share resources like files and printers effectively.

In a school setting, a LAN would enable students and staff to access shared educational resources, communicate with each other, and connect to the internet, all within a confined physical space. The structure and equipment used in a LAN, such as routers and switches, are optimized for relatively short distances, ensuring minimal latency and high throughput, which are essential for educational environments where timely access to information is crucial.

Other network types like wide area networks (WANs) cover large geographical areas and typically connect multiple LANs over greater distances, making them less suitable for confined setups like single buildings or campuses. Wireless networks (WLANs) refer specifically to wireless local area networks, which may also connect devices wirelessly within a localized area, but the essential definition points to a LAN as providing a broader category that includes both wired and wireless options. Metropolitan area networks (MANs) are used to connect users across a city or a large campus, which is beyond