Network Devices Introduction into Network Devices

Network Devices Introduction into Network Devices

Aims Gain a knowledge about network devices. Discuss what network devices are required to create a basic network Draw a bespoke network drawing using Visio

Network Devices In order to setup a network a variety of devices are required. The network devices differ according to what network you intend to setup. A network segment is a portion of a computer network where every device communicates using the same physical layer.

Basic Network A simple network can be created between two computers (peer to peer). In order to create this connection each computer must have an NIC network interface card. A Network card, Network Adapter, LAN Adapter or NIC (network interface card) is a piece of computer hardware designed to allow computers to communicate over a computer network. 4

Basic Network

Basic Network An NIC provides physical access to a networking medium and provides a low-level addressing system through the use of MAC (Media Access Control) addresses. It allows users to connect to each other either by using cables or wirelessly.

Task 1. Use a crossover cable to connect TWO computers together. 2. Find out more about MAC Addresses 3. Using the internet find out what a Modem is used for.

Other Networks

Other Network Devices There are a variety of different network devices that are available Each has a specific role within the network. Switch Hub Router Bridge Gateway Repeaters 9

Other Network Devices Switches A network switch is a device that connects network segments. A switch is intelligent, it can recognise what cable has been inserted into it and adapt to allow the network to communicate.

Other Network Devices Hubs A network hub is a device for connecting multiple devices together, making them act as a single network segment.

Other Network Devices What is the difference between a Hub and a Switch? A hub receives a packet at one of its ports from a PC on the network, it transmits the packet to all of its ports (broadcast) thus, to all of the other PCs on the network. A hub does not use any intelligence to determine the destination of a packet, whereas a switch does.

Tasks What problems could occur as a result of using a hub?

Other Network Devices Router This is a device that forwards and routes data packets along networks. A router is often included as part of a network switch. A router is located where one network meets another. It prevents the traffic on one from unnecessarily spilling over to the other. This process is known as routing.

Other Network Devices Bridge A bridge is a device that connects two networks so that they act as if they re one network. A key feature of a bridge is to enable a large network to be partition into two smaller, more efficient networks. Bridges work best in networks that are highly segregated.

Other Network Devices Gateway The main job of a gateway is to convert protocols among communications networks. A gateway can accept a packet formatted for one protocol (e.g. AppleTalk) and convert it to a packet formatted for another protocol (e.g. TCP/IP) before forwarding it. A gateway can be implemented in hardware, software or both, but they are usually implemented by software installed within a router.

Tasks Using the internet look into the various other available network devices/terms, including Multiplexers, ADSL, Analogue and digital frequencies. Do you agree with the following descriptions?

ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a form of DSL. A data communications technology that enables faster data transmission over copper telephone lines than a conventional voice-band modem can provide. Utilizing frequencies that are not used by a voice telephone call. A splitter - or micro filter - allows a single telephone connection to be used for both ADSL service and voice calls at the same time. (BT)

DSL DSL or xdsl, is a family of technologies that provide digital data transmission over the wires of a local telephone network. DSL originally stood for digital subscriber loop, although in recent years, the term digital subscriber line has been widely adopted as a more marketing-friendly term for ADSL. ADSL is the most popular version of consumer-ready DSL. DSL uses high frequency, while regular telephone uses low frequency on the same telephone line. (NTL)

Conclusion Gained knowledge about network devices Discuss what network devices are required to setup a network Create a bespoke network diagram in Visio