What best describes a Personal Area Network (PAN)?

A Personal Area Network (PAN) is best described as a small network for personal devices within close proximity. This type of network typically encompasses a range of devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other personal gadgets that can communicate with each other over a short distance, usually within a few meters.

The defining characteristic of a PAN is its limited coverage area, which makes it ideal for connecting devices that are close together without the need for extensive cabling or infrastructure. Technologies like Bluetooth and infrared are commonly used for creating PANs, enabling easy and quick communication among various personal devices.

Understanding the context of the other options provides clarity on why they do not accurately describe a PAN. A network connecting several computers in a building refers more to a Local Area Network (LAN), which serves a larger area with multiple devices but still within the confines of a building. A wide-area network covering multiple cities constitutes a Wide Area Network (WAN), which is much more extensive and designed for connecting devices over larger geographical distances. Lastly, a network allowing access to shared databases typically aligns with client-server models or enterprise networks rather than the personal focus of a PAN. This knowledge reinforces why the description of a PAN is specifically tailored to personal devices operating in close proximity.