What characteristic distinguishes a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is characterized by its coverage, which spans a large geographic area. This could include connections between cities, countries, or even continents, allowing for the interconnection of multiple local networks. The primary function of a WAN is to facilitate long-distance communication and connectivity between various smaller networks, often over public or private transmission systems.

A WAN’s infrastructure typically involves leased telecommunication lines and satellites, which supports its operation over extensive distances—far exceeding the range of local networks confined to single buildings or local areas. This expansive nature enables organizations to share data and resources more effectively across various locations, which is pivotal for businesses and institutions that operate on a global scale or across multiple sites.

The other options refer to characteristics of different network types. For example, operating within a single building pertains to Local Area Networks (LANs), while limited local connections are also indicative of LAN functionality. Mention of limited data throughput could refer to specific network constraints but isn't a defining trait of WANs, as they are designed to handle substantial data traffic over greater distances compared to their local counterparts.