Which network type covers a large geographical area, often spanning cities or countries?

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is designed to cover a large geographical area, making it ideal for connecting multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) that may be located in different cities, countries, or even continents. WANs utilize various transmission media, such as leased telecommunication lines, satellites, and public communication networks, to facilitate communication over long distances. This expansive reach allows organizations to integrate resources and share information across dispersed locations efficiently.

Local Area Networks (LANs), in contrast, are confined to smaller, localized areas such as homes, schools, or office buildings. They connect devices within a limited geographical scope and are typically characterized by high-speed connections.

Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) serve a middle ground between LANs and WANs, typically covering larger areas than LANs but smaller than WANs, such as a city or a campus.

Personal Area Networks (PANs) are the smallest type, designed for connecting personal devices, generally within a range of a few meters.

Thus, a Wide Area Network is the correct answer, as it is specifically intended for large-scale connectivity across significant distances.