(Local Area Network, LAN) A network for communication between computers confined to a single building or in a closely located group of buildings, permitting users to exchange data, share a common printer or master a common computer, etc. Linked groups of LANs extended over a larger area are termed Wide Area Networks (WANs). WANS may connect users in different buildings or countries. Networks which extend over city-wide areas are called Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).