NETWOK DEVICES
WHAT IS NETWORK
DEVICES?
Networking devices are equipments that
allow to receive or transmit data or signal
and used to make communication channel
DIFFERENT NETWORKING
DEVICES
NIC
Modem
Hub
Switches
Repeaters
Bridge
ETHERNET CARD OR NIC
A NIC (Network Interface card) is a card that is installed in computer so
that it can be connected to network using coaxial or twisted pair cables.
Now days,most of the PCs and Laptops are equipped with an integrated
NIC on its Motherboard. Each LAN card posses a unique 6 Byte Physical
address assigned by the manufacturer, called Media Access Control
(MAC)Address. This address identifies a node uniquely over the
network.
MODEM
MODEM (MODulatorDEModulator) is a device that connects Telephone
line to Computer. It converts Digital signal into Analog(Modulation) and
Analog to Digital (Demodulation).This conversion is required because
Telephone lines can’t carry digital data. Generally it is used to connect a
PC with Telephone lines to access Internet or make call and FAX using pc.
TYPES OF MODEMS
Internal Modem External Modem
1. The modems that are fixed 1. The modems that are
within the computer connected externally to a
computer
2. Eg : Dial-up modems
2. Eg : USB modems
3.
HUB
A Hub is a connecting device which connects multiple computers
together to form a Local Area Network(LAN). Hubs make
broadcast type Network and do not manage traffic over the
network. Signal entering any port is broadcast out on all other
ports. It provides various RJ-45 ports to connect Twisted Pair cable
in STAR topology, making them act as a single network segment.
Now days, Switch is used in place of Hubs.
SWITCHES
Switches are smart hubs that send data directly to the destination
rather than broadcast within network . When the switch receives a
packet, it examines the destination and source address and sends
packet to destination node only. Switch can also used to combine
various small network segments to form a big Network. Switch is
faster and efficient over Hub due to good traffic management
capability.
REPEATERS
A repeater is a device that amplifies a signal being transmitted on
the network. Since a signal loses its strength as it passes along a
cable. The repeater electrically amplifies the signal it receives and
rebroadcasts it. In case of twisted pair cable, signals become weak
after 100 meters. Repeaters are required at each 90- 100 meters to
maintain signal strength.
BRIDGES
Bridges convert network data formats and perform basic data
transmission management. Bridges provide connections between
LANs . They also check data to determine if it should cross the
bridge. This makes each part of the network more efficient .
