Western Governors University (WGU) BUS2060 D078 Business Environment Applications I: Business Structures and Legal Environment Pre-assesment Practice Exam

In small offices or homes, a Local Area Network (LAN) is typically utilized to connect computers and other devices within a limited geographic area. A LAN allows users to share resources such as files, printers, and internet connections efficiently and effectively. This network type is characterized by its high data transfer rates, low latency, and lower costs associated with setting up and maintaining the network infrastructure compared to larger networks.

LANs are particularly suited for small environments because they support a limited number of devices and facilitate easy management and configuration by users. In contrast, options such as Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) are designed for larger, more expansive areas and are often used to connect multiple LANs across greater distances, making them less practical for small office or home settings. Personal Area Networks (PAN), while also suitable for small environments, typically focus on connecting personal devices within a very close range, such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops, but do not serve the purpose of connecting multiple devices for broader network functionality. Therefore, a LAN is the best fit for small offices and homes due to its specific design for local connectivity and resource sharing.