Which type of network connects users and resources across wider geographical areas?

The correct answer highlights the function of a wide area network (WAN), which is designed to connect users and resources over large geographical areas, often spanning cities, countries, or even continents. WANs utilize a variety of transmission technologies to facilitate this connectivity, such as leased telecommunication lines, satellite links, and other means of data transmission. This enables organizations to maintain communication and resource sharing among multiple locations, making it a crucial system for businesses and individuals who require access to data and applications across vast distances.

In contrast, options like the intranet and local area network (LAN) serve more localized purposes. An intranet is a private network that allows access within an organization, while a LAN connects devices within a limited area, such as a single building or campus. An extranet grants controlled access to external users but typically remains within the confines of the organization’s existing network. Each of these alternatives focuses on connectivity in smaller, more localized networks, making them unsuitable for connections across broader geographical spans that a WAN specifically addresses.