This document provides an overview of computer networks and distributed systems. It defines a computer network as a set of devices connected by communication links that allow the exchange of information. A distributed system is a collection of independent computers that appear as a single system to users. The goals of networking are discussed as performance, reliability, security, resource sharing, cost reduction, and enabling communication. Peer-to-peer and client-server are presented as the main approaches for communication within a network. Finally, common network hardware such as nodes, network interface cards, hubs, switches, repeaters, and routers are defined.