A computer network connects autonomous devices like computers, printers, and other devices to exchange data. Nodes are connected by communication channels like copper wires, fiber optics, or wireless links. A distributed system builds a software system on top of a network so that the existence of multiple computers is transparent to the user. To be effective, networks must meet performance, reliability, and security criteria. Common network applications include electronic messaging, directory services, information services, electronic data interchange, and teleconferencing. Networks can be classified based on their topology like mesh, star, tree, bus, and ring configurations. Local area networks connect devices within a single building or campus.