A group of computers is called a network. The computers in the network communicate with each other and exchange data over long distances. When computers with the same communication architectures are interlinked, this is known as an homogeneous network.
A heterogeneous network is one in which computers communicate using various protocols. Computer networks are characterized by the distance to be covered and the type of cabling, the utilization of public services, the transmission speed, and the type of protocols, i.e. the totality of rules and regulations that must be observed when transmitting information.
The most important distinctions between networks are the transmission speeds, the technology used, and the distance to be covered between the computers.
Using these criteria, networks are classified as LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks). LANs and WANs are described in further detail below.