Network Hardware
Network Hardware
Network hardware refers to the physical devices necessary for communication and interaction between various linked systems on a network. This includes routers, switches, hubs, modems, and network interface cards (NICs) among others.
Routers
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A router is a network device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It connects multiple networks together, such as a home network with the internet.
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Routers direct traffic on the internet by analysing the destination address of data packets and choosing the best route for them to reach their destination.
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Most domestic routers also function as wireless access points and modems.
Switches
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A network switch is a device that directs and controls data flow between devices on a network.
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It works by receiving and processing data frames, looking at the destination address, and forwarding the frames to the appropriate port or device.
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Switches operate at a high speed and often have ample capacity, allowing for minimal data transfer delay.
Hubs
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A network hub is a simple device that connects multiple ethernet devices together, making them act as a single network segment.
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Unlike switches, hubs do not manage any of the data they receive. They send incoming data packets out to all other devices on the network.
Modems
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A modem is a device that modulates and demodulates data for transmission.
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It connects a network to the internet. Modems can be independent devices, or they can be integrated into routers.
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Modems convert the digital data from a computer into a format suitable for transmission over phone or cable lines and then decodes the data back into digital format.
Network Interface Cards (NICs)
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A network interface card (NIC) is a circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so it can connect to a network.
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Every NIC has a unique MAC address that identifies the device on the network.
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NICs can be wired or wireless. They are responsible for converting data into a format for transmission and then converting received data into a readable format.