What is a network in the context of technology?

In the context of technology, a network is defined as a system of computers sharing information. This encompasses various configurations of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other, facilitating the exchange of data and resources. Networking allows computers to connect and share everything from files and applications to internet access, enabling collaboration and efficient utilization of resources across multiple devices.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as it lays the foundation for delving into more complex topics related to data transmission, network design, and protocols that govern communications. Networks can vary in size from small local area networks (LANs) to expansive wide area networks (WANs), impacting how information is processed and shared among users.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of a network. For example, while managing data and assessing student performance are important aspects of technology, they pertain to different functions and tools rather than the concept of a network itself. Additionally, a collection of physical computers refers more to hardware components rather than the interconnected system enabled by networking, which emphasizes the relationships and communication between those devices.