NETWORKING DEVICES

WHAT IS A NETWORK?

NETWORKSNetworks come in all sizes. They can range from simple networks consisting of two computers, to networks connecting millions of devices.Here are other uses of a network and the Internet:

Sharing music and video files Research and on-line learning Chatting with friends Planning vacations Purchasing gifts and supplies

Can you think of other ways people use networks and the Internet in their daily lives?

BASIC NETWORK COMPONENTSThere are many components that can be part of a network, for example personal computers, servers, networking devices, and cabling. These components can be grouped into four main categories:HostsShared peripheralsNetworking devicesNetworking media

Networking devices connect other devices, mainly hosts. These devices move and control network traffic.Networking Devices include all the devices that connect the end-user devices together to allow them to communicate

Example of network devices include hubs, switches, and routers.

NETWORK DEVICES

Network devices provide transport for the data that needs to be transferred between end-user devicesNetwork devices provide extension of cable connections, concentration of connections, conversion of data formats, and management of data transfers

These devices are the following:• Repeaters • Hubs• Bridges • Switches• Routers

NETWORK DEVICES

REPEATERSRepeaters used to regenerate the signal

HUBSHubs concentrate connection

BRIDGESBridges convert network transmission data formats as well as perform basic data transmission management

SWITCHESSwitches add more intelligence to data transfer management

ROUTERSRouters have all the capabilities listed above and can connect to WAN