What does a computer network contain?

There are a few different types of networks:

1. LAN: Local Area Network; Usually consists of 2 or more computers in the same building. Large business down to 2 computer homes are on this type of network. Computers can share information with each other, also share one internet connection and one or more printers. Businesses will use whats called a "Server" to manage their network, and all the printers as well. Servers are also used to act as a "firewall" to block any outside computers from connecting to its network.

2. WAN: Wide Area Network; Also known as the "internet." This is a network of networks and single computers. All connected together via servers. Your computer at home connects to a server known as your "ISP - Internet Service Provider." When you type in "www.google.com" you actually tell your ISP to find that website which is located on another server somewhere else in the world. It might have to connect to 15 other servers before connecting to the main server where that website is hosted, and it then sends the signal back to you allowing you to use the webpage - All in a matter of a second.

Many other types of networks are used, but these are the two basics. Essentially as long as 2 or more computers are connected to a Hub, Switch, Router, or server they are on a network.