What is a local area network (LAN)?

A local area network (LAN) is indeed defined as a collection of computers and devices that are interconnected within a small geographic area, such as a home, office, or building. This definition highlights the primary characteristic of a LAN: its limited range, which typically spans a few hundred meters.

LANs facilitate high-speed data transfer and resource sharing among devices in close proximity, allowing users to share files, access printers, and utilize applications collaboratively without the need for a wider network infrastructure. The networking equipment used in a LAN, such as routers, switches, and access points, are designed to operate efficiently over short distances.

In contrast, the other options do not adequately capture the essence of a LAN. For example, a network connecting users across the globe refers to a wide area network (WAN), while a temporary network for project collaboration suggests a different context, possibly a type of ad-hoc network. A type of wide area network would imply a larger scale that is inconsistent with the defined characteristics of a LAN. Thus, the definition that describes a LAN as a collection of computers connected in a small geographic area is accurate and underscores its primary function and structure.