A computer network is a system of interconnected computers and other devices that can communicate with each other and share resources such as files, printers, and internet connections. Networks can be classified based on their size and scope, ranging from small local area networks (LANs) within a single building or campus to wide area networks (WANs) that span across cities or even countries. Networks can be wired, using cables to connect devices, or wireless, using radio waves to transmit data. They can also be private, such as a company's internal network, or public, such as the internet. Networks are essential for enabling communication and collaboration between users and devices, and for accessing and sharing information and resources.