What type of network does a LAN typically cover?

A Local Area Network (LAN) is designed to cover a limited geographic area, typically within a single building or a closely situated group of buildings. This allows devices within that physical space, such as computers, printers, and servers, to connect and communicate efficiently with one another.

LANs are commonly used in homes, schools, and small to medium-sized businesses where high-speed connectivity is necessary for regular tasks such as file sharing, gaming, or collaborative work. Since the scope of a LAN operates on a local scale, the technology and infrastructure are optimized for short distances, yielding faster data transfer rates and lower latency compared to broader network types.

In contrast, the other options represent larger scale networks. A global network would cover multiple countries and continents, a metropolitan network connects users across a city or a large campus, and a regional network spans a broader area than a LAN, connecting multiple LANs. Therefore, the term 'local' accurately describes the primary function and reach of a LAN.