Local area network (LAN) is a collection of computers and other networked devices that fit within the scope of a single physical network and provide the building blocks for internetworks and WANs.
Definition 2.
Local area network (LAN) is a network that links a number of independent electronic devices located within a moderate-sized geographical area / relatively small area, usually with a radius of 1 to 10 miles. LANs are used primarily to connect devices within a buildings and offices so that knowledge workers can share data, information, messages, software, and even peripherals, such as printers. Hence, a LAN is owned by a single organization.