A network physically connects computers and devices that exchange data through wires or wireless transmission. Devices like routers and switches direct traffic to improve the flow of data across the network. There are two main types of networks: local area networks (LANs) that connect devices over short distances like within an office or school, and wide area networks (WANs) that connect devices over large distances like the Internet. While LANs are typically owned by a single entity, WANs use shared public infrastructure. Networks can be wired or wireless, with wireless networks becoming more common and allowing access from any location.
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