Which of the following types of networks allows an IT professional to work on computer systems across large geographical distances?

The correct answer is Wide Area Network (WAN) because these networks are specifically designed to cover large geographical areas, enabling data transmission over long distances. WANs connect multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) and Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), allowing for communication between devices that may be separated by hundreds or thousands of miles. This capability is essential for businesses and organizations that operate across multiple locations, facilitating remote access, collaboration, and centralized data management.

In contrast, a Local Area Network (LAN) is limited to a smaller geographical area, typically within a single building or closely situated group of buildings. It provides high speeds and low latency but does not support long-distance connections. A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a larger area than a LAN but is still limited to a specific city or region, making it unsuitable for spanning vast distances. Personal Area Networks (PANs) are even smaller, designed for very localized connections, typically between personal devices within a short range, such as connecting a phone to a laptop or headset via Bluetooth. Thus, WANs are uniquely suited for IT professionals needing to manage systems over extensive distances.