A network (or computer network) is a collection of computers and devices in a home or business or within a larger area that are linked and governed by a ‘server’ – either a special computer program or such a program on a dedicated computer. The server allows the computers in a network to share information and resources such as printers, software and internet connections. In addition, a server enables users within a network to communicate via email without using the internet.
Networks can also interconnect with each other. They are usually defined – in terms of geographical distance – as local area networks (LANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs) and wide area networks (WANs).