A network is two or more computers connected so they can share data and resources.

Benefits of networking:

- Share peripherals (printers, scanners) without buying one per computer

- Access files from any device on the network

- Central backup — data stored once on a server

- Central software updates and security patches

- Easy communication between users

Drawbacks:

- Cost of hardware (cables, switches, routers)

- Security risks — malware can spread across the entire network

- Requires technical expertise to set up and manage

- If the server goes down, everyone is affected