Computer networks permit sharing and central management of resources, applications and data across multiple devices in a secure and scalable manner. They are an integral component of modern-day life and offer advantages such as better collaboration and communication, less costs, increased security, and greater accessibility to data and resources.

Networks are built up of two key elements, links and nodes. Nodes are network devices such as printers, computers, and servers that communicate with one another using the set of standard rules known as communication protocols. Links connect these network nodes using optical or wired connections. A laptop that communicates with local networks via Wi-Fi is a node (DTE) and an link (DCE). Network switches and routers work as traffic cops, directing data packets to their destination efficiently.

A wide-area network (WAN) makes use of bridges and gateways to connect several local area networks. A WAN unlike a local area network (LAN), is connected to global communication networks as well as the Internet. Students in Florida for instance can connect via teleconference from their workstations with peers in Tokyo thanks to the wireless network.

Computer networks help streamline work processes and foster a more active and collaborative work environment. Employees can save documents to a server which is regularly backed-up, instead of emailing documents back-and-forth and resulting in losing documents. They can also easily access standard versions of user or employee manuals on the network, which will ensure accuracy and consistency.

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