CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

What defines a Local Area Network (LAN)?

1. A group of devices in different broadcast domains

2. A group of devices in the same broadcast domain

3. A single device operating independently

4. A collection of devices across multiple geographic locations

The correct answer is: A group of devices in the same broadcast domain

A Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a group of devices that are interconnected within a limited geographical area, such as a single building or campus, and typically share the same broadcast domain. This means that all devices in a LAN can communicate with one another directly without needing to go through a router, as they are within the same network segment. In the context of the correct choice, being in the same broadcast domain allows devices to send broadcast packets to all other devices in that segment, promoting efficient communication and resource sharing such as printer access and file transfers. A LAN usually employs Ethernet or Wi-Fi to facilitate networking among devices, allowing them to work closely together. The other options provided do not align with the definition of a LAN. For instance, having devices in different broadcast domains or spanning multiple geographic locations describes more extensive network architectures, such as Wide Area Networks (WANs). A single device operating independently does not constitute a network, as the essence of a LAN involves multiple devices interconnected.