Which type of network extends beyond a local area, often to accommodate a longer geographical distance?

A wide area network (WAN) is designed to extend over a large geographical area, often connecting multiple local area networks (LANs) that are situated far apart. WANs utilize various technologies to enable long-distance communication and data transfer, which can span across cities, countries, or even continents. This capability is essential for businesses and organizations that operate in multiple locations, as it allows them to integrate their technology resources seamlessly.

In contrast, a local area network (LAN) is limited to a smaller, localized area, such as a single building or campus, which is not suitable for covering broader distances. A metropolitan area network (MAN) covers a larger area than a LAN but is still restricted to a city or a large campus, making it less extensive than a WAN. Lastly, a virtual private network (VPN) is a secure connection often established over a public network, but it does not define a specific geographic network type; rather, it is a method for securely transmitting data across networks, included as part of WAN implementations as well.