The correct answer is local area network (LAN) because the branch office’s internal network connects devices within a single geographic location, such as a single floor or building, and is designed for high-speed local connectivity among the 50 employees. A LAN definition and use case like this focuses on sharing resources—such as centralized databases and email servers—quickly and securely within a confined area, while the leased line to headquarters creates a separate wide area network (WAN) link. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this question tests your ability to distinguish between LAN and WAN based on scope: a LAN covers a small physical area, whereas a WAN connects multiple LANs over long distances. A common trap is confusing the internal network with the external connection; remember, the question asks about the internal network, not the leased line. Memory tip: think “LAN = Local, same location; WAN = Wide, across the world.”
220-1201 Network Types Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of network types. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A technician is asked to set up a network for a new branch office that will connect back to the main headquarters using a leased line. The branch has 50 employees who need access to centralized databases and email. Which network type best describes the branch office's internal network?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "best"
Why it matters: Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Local area network (LAN)
The branch office's internal network is a LAN (Local Area Network) because it connects devices within a single geographic location. The leased line to headquarters creates a WAN link, but the question specifically asks about the internal network. LANs are designed for high-speed local connectivity.
Key principle: OSPF neighbour adjacency depends on matching area, hello/dead timers, network type, and authentication — IP reachability alone is not enough.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Wide area network (WAN)
Why it's wrong here
A WAN connects multiple LANs over a large geographic area, not the internal network of a single office.
✗
Metropolitan area network (MAN)
Why it's wrong here
A MAN covers a city, not a single office building.
✓
Local area network (LAN)
Why this is correct
A LAN connects devices within a limited area like an office, providing high-speed internal connectivity.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
A PAN is for personal devices within a few meters, not a 50-employee office.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: OSPF can fail even when IP connectivity looks correct
OSPF neighbour formation depends on matching areas, timers, network type, authentication and passive-interface behaviour. Do not choose an answer only because the devices can ping.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
OSPF questions usually test the details that control adjacency and route selection. Read the neighbour state, area, router ID and interface configuration before deciding what is wrong.
KKey Concepts to Remember
OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters.
Router ID selection can affect neighbour relationships and LSDB output.
OSPF cost influences the preferred path.
A route can appear in OSPF information but not become the installed route.
TExam Day Tips
→Check area mismatch first when OSPF adjacency fails.
→Review passive interfaces when a network is advertised but no neighbour forms.
→Use show ip ospf neighbor and show ip route clues carefully.
Key takeaway
OSPF neighbour adjacency depends on matching area, hello/dead timers, network type, and authentication — IP reachability alone is not enough.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 220-1201 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. OSPF neighbour adjacency depends on matching area, hello/dead timers, network type, and authentication — IP reachability alone is not enough. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1201 question in full detail.
Review OSPF neighbour requirements — matching area type, hello and dead timers, network type, stub flags, and authentication. Study show ip ospf neighbor states (INIT, 2-WAY, FULL). Then practise related 220-1201 OSPF questions on adjacency and route selection.
Network Types — This question tests Network Types — OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Local area network (LAN) — The branch office's internal network is a LAN (Local Area Network) because it connects devices within a single geographic location. The leased line to headquarters creates a WAN link, but the question specifically asks about the internal network. LANs are designed for high-speed local connectivity.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Review OSPF neighbour requirements — matching area type, hello and dead timers, network type, stub flags, and authentication. Study show ip ospf neighbor states (INIT, 2-WAY, FULL). Then practise related 220-1201 OSPF questions on adjacency and route selection.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "best". Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
What is the key concept behind this question?
OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters.
About these practice questions
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These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. A small business is moving to a new office and wants to connect all their computers, printers, and a server. They have a limited budget and need a simple, wired network that does not require internet access initially. Which network type should they implement?
medium
A.Wide Area Network (WAN)
✓ B.Local Area Network (LAN)
C.Personal Area Network (PAN)
D.Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Why B: A Local Area Network (LAN) is the standard choice for connecting devices within a single office, allowing file and printer sharing without internet. It is cost-effective and simple to set up. A WAN is for long-distance, a PAN is too limited, and a MAN is for larger areas.
Last reviewed: Jun 18, 2026
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