IDENTIFICATION OF NETWORK COMPONENTS.
What is Network?
A network is a system where two or more devices are connected to share
information and resources.
It allows communication between devices through wired or wireless
connections.
Two very common types of networks include:
1. LAN (Local Area Network)
2. WAN (Wide Area Network)
• LAN
LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that connects computers and devices within a
small, limited area like a home, school, or office.
It allows users to share data, files, and resources such as printers quickly within that
area.
• WAN
WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that connects computers and devices across
large geographical areas, such as cities, countries, or continents.
It is used to link multiple LANs together, with the Internet being the largest example of a
WAN.
• LAN CARD
A LAN Card (Network Interface Card) is a hardware device that allows a
computer to connect to a network.
It enables communication by sending and receiving data over a LAN through
wired or wireless connections.
LAN Cards are of two types:
1.Wired LAN Cards 2.Wireless
HUB
A hub is a simple networking device used to connect multiple computers within
a Local Area Network (LAN). It works by receiving data from one device and
sending it to all other connected devices, regardless of the destination. A hub
works at the physical layer and doesn’t filter data, making it less efficient than a
switch. Still, it is simple, affordable, and useful for basic network connections.
SWITCH
A switch is an intelligent networking device used to connect multiple
computers within a LAN. Unlike a hub, it sends data only to the specific device
it is meant for, which makes network communication faster and more efficient.
A switch works at the data link layer and uses MAC addresses to send data
accurately, reducing traffic and improving network performance.
ROUTER
A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks and directs
data between them. It determines the best path for data to travel, ensuring
efficient communication across different networks or the internet. A router
assigns IP addresses and manages data flow, helping devices access the
internet smoothly.
BRIDGE
A bridge is a networking device used to connect two or more LAN segments so
they function as a single network. It filters and forwards data based on MAC
addresses, ensuring that only necessary traffic crosses between segments.
Operating at the data link layer, a bridge helps reduce network congestion.
TYPES OF NETWORK CABLE
CAT 5
CAT 5 is an Ethernet cable used for connecting devices in a LAN. It supports data
speeds up to 100 Mbps and uses twisted copper wire pairs.
CAT 6
CAT 6 is an advanced Ethernet cable that supports faster network speeds up to 1
Gbps or more. It has better insulation and reduced interference compared to CAT 5.
FIBER
Fiber optic cable is a high-speed networking medium that transmits data using light
signals. It offers very fast speeds and low signal loss, making it ideal for long-distance
communication. Fiber is commonly used in broadband internet, telecom networks,
and data centres.
RJ45
RJ45 is a standard connector used for Ethernet cables in computer networks. It
connects devices like computers, routers, and switches to a LAN. RJ45 has 8 pins that
allow reliable data transmission.
STRAIGHT CABLE VS CROSS CABLE
• STRAIGHT CABLE
A straight cable (straight-through cable) is a type of Ethernet cable used to
connect different devices, like a computer to a switch or router.
The wiring on both ends follows the same sequence, making it ideal for
standard network connections.
• CROSS CABLE
A cross cable (crossover cable) is an Ethernet cable used to connect similar
devices, such as computer-to-computer or switch-to-switch.
Its wiring pattern is reversed on one end, allowing the devices to communicate
directly without a switch or router.
