What is a network?

A network is fundamentally defined as a group of interconnected computers that share resources and information. This interconnectedness allows for communication between the devices, enabling them to exchange data and utilize shared resources such as printers, files, and internet connections. In a networked environment, multiple users can collaborate and access shared information, enhancing efficiency and productivity.

In contrast, other definitions such as any electronic device connected to the internet oversimplify the concept, as not all devices are part of a network in the traditional sense of resource sharing and intercommunication. Similarly, a single computer performing tasks independently refers to standalone operations without the collaborative benefits that a network provides. Lastly, a database of all computing tasks does not accurately capture the networking aspect, which is about connectivity and interaction between multiple devices. Thus, focusing on the interconnectedness and resource sharing aspect of computers is key to understanding what constitutes a network.