(1) Any arrangement of elements that are interconnected. See
network database.
(2) A system that transmits data between users, which includes the client devices (computers, tablets and phones) and the network equipment (servers, switches, routers and cables). In wireless systems, antennas replace the cables.
LANs and WANs
Local area networks (LANs) are internal to a home, building or complex, and are almost exclusively Ethernet for cabled devices and Wi-Fi for wireless. Wide area networks (WANs) span large distances, such as a state or nation. See
LAN,
WAN,
Ethernet,
Wi-Fi,
client,
server,
switch,
router,
enterprise networking and
communications.