A computer network connects computers that communicate over transmission lines. There are three main types of networks: local area networks (LANs) that connect computers in a single location, wide area networks (WANs) that connect computers across different geographic sites, and the Internet which is a global network of networks. LANs connect computers within half a mile using switches, cables, and network interface cards. WANs connect computers at physically separate sites using technologies like leased lines, public switched networks, and virtual private networks. When choosing a network, considerations include setup, operational, and maintenance costs as well as performance factors and growth potential.