This document discusses computer networks and data communication. It defines data communication as the electronic transmission of data and information between computers and other devices. A computer network is described as the physical interconnection of two or more computers to share resources. The key components of a computer network are identified as hardware components like servers, clients, network adapters, cables, and software components like network operating systems and protocols. Advantages of networks include easy sharing of data and resources while disadvantages include security risks and costs.