LAN MAN WAN comparison – UGC NET Question

These three categories differentiate networks by geographic span. A LAN links nearby devices, a MAN connects multiple LANs in a city and a WAN joins networks over very large distances. Understanding their scale helps in network planning and infrastructure decisions in institutions. This option is consistent with standard ICT terminology.

Option A:
This option accurately reflects common textbook definitions and is widely used in exam questions. It helps learners see that each higher level usually aggregates multiple smaller networks, moving from local to global.

Option B:
Claiming that a LAN covers continents and a MAN is limited to a room reverses the accepted meanings. It leads to confusion about appropriate technologies and design choices.

Option C:
Limiting each network type to specific device categories, such as satellites or mobile phones, is misleading. All three network types can involve different devices depending on context.

Option D:
Saying that all three terms mean the same thing ignores an important conceptual distinction in networking. It suggests there is no difference in design or usage, which is inaccurate.