What characterizes a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is characterized by its ability to connect devices over large geographical distances. This network type is essential for linking multiple locations, such as offices in different cities or even countries, allowing them to communicate and share resources. WANs utilize various transmission media, including satellites, telephone lines, and leased telecommunication lines, making them suitable for long-range connectivity.

This is in contrast to Local Area Networks (LANs), which are typically confined to a limited area like a single building or campus. The other options imply limitations or specific functions that do not accurately capture the fundamental nature of what a WAN entails. For instance, a network limited to a single building describes a LAN, while a network purely for local communications also refers to LAN characteristics. Lastly, while security is a critical aspect of any network, a focus on secure data transmission does not define the geographical reach and connectivity scope that characterizes WANs. Therefore, the ability to connect over extensive distances is the defining feature of a WAN.