Network Devices Flashcards
What are Network Devices?
Hardware that connects and helps manage communication (data) between devices on a network.
Routers
Directs data between multiple networks by choosing the most efficient path for the data to travel.
Switch
Connects multiple devices in a local network and uses a MAC address to send data to the device it’s meant for, making the network more efficient.
Hubs
Simple network devices that connect multiple devices in a network and broadcasts all incoming data to every connected device.
Modem (Modulator-demodulator)
A device that connects your home or office network to the internet.
Converts digital data into analog signals that can travel over phone or cable lines, and vice versa.
Access Point
Extends wireless coverage (Wi-Fi) in areas where the router’s signal may be weak or inconsistent.
Firewalls
Monitors and controls incoming and outgoing traffic to block unauthorized access and protect networks from threats.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
A hardware component responsible for enabling a device to connect to a network
Repeaters
Amplifies or regenerates signals in a network to extend the transmission distance, helping to overcome signal loss over long distances.
Bridge (Network Bridge)
A device that combines two or more network segments and allows them to communicate/work as one network, improving performance and reducing traffic collisions.
Also filters the traffic between these segments.
Gateway
A device (usually a router) that connects your local network to other networks, like the internet.
Load Balancer
Distributes incoming network traffic across multiple servers to ensure no single server is overwhelmed.
