Computer networks allow computers to share resources and communicate with each other. They consist of several key components including servers to store and provide access to shared data, clients that can receive data from other computers, and various transmission media like cables that connect all the devices physically. Additional components that help transfer and route data between clients and servers are network interface cards in each computer, hubs and switches to connect devices, and routers to join multiple networks together. Computer networks enable efficient collaboration and data sharing between users.