What does the acronym CAN stand for in networking contexts?

The acronym CAN in networking contexts stands for Campus Area Network. This type of network connects multiple buildings within a campus, such as those found at universities or corporate offices, allowing them to share resources and information effectively. Campus Area Networks typically cover a larger geographical area than a Local Area Network (LAN) but are smaller in scope than a Wide Area Network (WAN).

Understanding this term is essential, especially in the context of modern educational institutions and businesses that utilize networking to connect disparate facilities within a confined geographical location. The infrastructure of a CAN is designed to handle high-speed data transfer and the demands of multiple users simultaneously, making it a critical part of network design in educational and corporate environments.