What type of network is a WLAN?

A WLAN, or Wireless Local Area Network, is characterized by its use of radio transmissions for communication between devices. Rather than relying on physical cables or wired connections, WLANs leverage wireless technology, enabling devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets to connect to the network without being tethered by wires. This flexibility allows users to move freely within the coverage area without losing connectivity, which is one of the primary advantages of wireless networking.

The other options reflect different types of networking technologies. A wired network implies a direct physical connection using cables, which contradicts the very nature of a WLAN. A network using fiber-optic technology suggests high-speed data transmission via light, typically used in broader network infrastructures but not specifically defining a WLAN. Finally, a local area network using coaxial cable refers to an older wired networking standard, which again does not apply to the wireless framework of WLANs. Therefore, the correct identification of a WLAN as a network based on radio transmissions underscores its fundamental operational principles.