What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network that interconnects computers and devices within a limited geographic area, typically within the same building or campus. This setup allows the devices to communicate directly with one another and share resources such as files, printers, and internet connections. The primary feature of a LAN is its ability to facilitate high-speed data transfer with minimal latency, making it ideal for environments like offices, schools, and homes.

The other options describe different types of networks. A network that covers a wide geographic area would be classified as a Wide Area Network (WAN), which connects larger distances and often consists of multiple LANs. A connection between different geographic regions could refer to various networking strategies, such as WAN again or the use of the internet. A cloud-based network system indicates services and resources accessed over the internet rather than through a localized network. Thus, these definitions do not align with the specific characteristics of a Local Area Network.