Final answer:
A Local Area Network (LAN) is the technology used to connect a group of computers in a localized environment like an office or school. It facilitates sharing of resources and can be either wired or utilize WiFi for wireless connectivity. Networking essential devices, such as printers, demonstrates LANs' efficiency and cost-effectiveness in such settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technology designed to connect a group of computers in close proximity to each other, such as in an office building, a school, or a home, is known as a Local Area Network (LAN). A LAN allows devices within a limited area to communicate and share resources efficiently. For example, in an educational setting, a school may set up a LAN to connect computers in various classrooms and computer labs, enabling students and teachers to access shared resources like printers and file servers. With the evolution of personal computing, networking has become an integral part of computer usage, expanding the capabilities of computers well beyond their standalone functions.
In a modern office setting, LANs serve a critical role, allowing employees to collaborate by sharing documents and applications. LANs can be both wired, using Ethernet cables, or wireless, utilizing WiFi technology. WiFi makes use of microwaves to enable wireless communication between devices like laptops, smartphones, and printers. In the context of an office, networking printers, as described in the scenario with Contrived State University, demonstrates a practical application of a LAN. By networking printers to a LAN, multiple employees can use a single printer, which can be more cost-effective and efficient than individual printers for each person.