What is characterized by physical cables connecting machines?

The choice of a Local Area Network (LAN) is characterized by its use of physical cables to connect various devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, within a limited geographical area, often a single building or campus. LANs utilize Ethernet cables or fiber optics to establish connections between devices, enabling them to communicate and share resources efficiently.

This design allows for high-speed data transfer and is ideal for environments where proximity and direct connections support frequent access to shared data and resources. Understanding LANs is essential for anyone in the field of network administration or IT, as they serve as the backbone for most organizational networking setups.

In contrast, options like a Wireless Network rely on radio signals instead of physical cables; a Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates secure connections over the internet without requiring physical connection to the local network; and a Cloud Network typically involves services and resources accessed over the internet rather than through direct cable connections.