Which type of network consists of a large number of networks connected across many geographic areas?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is designed to cover extensive geographic areas, often spanning cities, countries, or even continents. This type of network connects multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) and Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) over long distances, enabling communication and data exchange across vast and diverse locations.

WANs typically utilize various transmission technologies, including leased lines, satellite links, and public internet infrastructure, to interconnect disparate networks securely and efficiently. This capability allows organizations to operate across multiple sites while maintaining a seamless connection for users and devices.

In contrast, Local Area Networks (LANs) are confined to smaller geographic areas, like a single building or campus. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) cover larger urban areas, but they do not extend as broadly as WANs. Campus Area Networks (CANs) are designed for a group of interconnected buildings within a single campus, making WANs the only option that adequately describes a network framework with a vast geographic spread and the interconnection of numerous smaller networks.