The most simplistic definition for a data network is an electronic communications process that allows for the orderly transmission and receptive of data, such as letters, spreadsheets, and other types of documents. What sets the data network apart from other forms of communication, such as an audio network, is that the data network is configured to transmit data only. This is in contrast to the audio or voice network, which is often employed for both voice communications and the transmission of data such as a facsimile transmission.

There are two basic types of data networks in operation today. The private data network is essentially a local network that is designed to allow for the transmission of data between the various departments within a given entity, such as a company. All locations of the company may be included as nodes on the network, and be able to communicate through a common server that functions as the repository for any and all data files that are used throughout the business. There are also examples of a private data network that allows for data sharing between several companies that are part of the same profession or industry. Connections to this type of network can be achieved through the creation of a virtual private network, or VPN that resides on a master server, or by provisioning the connections through a communications carrier.

In contrast to the private data network, the public data network will be widely accessible to both residential and corporate clients of a given carrier network. The setup of a public network may involve the utilization of multiple servers and connection to the network through several different processes. Often, a public data network will require some type of subscription process, such as a monthly usage fee. Upon receipt of the fee, the service provider will allow the creation of access credentials that will allow the consumer to access authorized portions of the network and engage in several functions commonly involved with data. These include the ability to retrieve stores documents, create backups of important data files, and archiving data such as historical information or other data that is understood to be valuable for future applications.