Which type of network is specifically designed to provide communication for devices owned by a single user over a short distance?

A Personal Area Network (PAN) is designed for the communication of devices owned by a single user over a short distance, typically within a range of about 10 meters. This type of network often connects personal devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and wearable devices, allowing them to communicate and share data.

PANs are commonly established using technologies like Bluetooth and Infrared, which are ideal for short-range connections. The characteristics of a PAN emphasize convenience and personal usage, greatly distinguishing it from other network types that cater to broader range communication or multiple users.

In contrast, Local Area Networks (LANs) cater to multiple users within a limited area but typically cover larger spaces like homes, offices, or schools. Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) are a subset of LANs that use wireless technology, but they still cater to a wider group of devices and users. Wide Area Networks (WANs) span much larger geographical areas and connect multiple LANs over long distances, which is unsuitable for the personal use case that a PAN addresses. Thus, a PAN is the most fitting choice for scenarios involving short-distance communication among personal devices.