Networking Devices
Networking Devices
All but the most basic of networks require devices to provide connectivity and functionality. Understanding how these networking devices operate and identifying the functions they perform are essential skills for any network administrator and requirements for a Network candidate.
We introduces commonly used networking devices, and, although it is true that you are not likely to encounter all of the devices mentioned in this chapter on the exam, you can be assured of working with at least some of them.
The main Networking Devices are:
✓ Hubs
✓ Switches
✓ Bridges
✓ Routers
✓ Gateways
✓ CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit)
✓ NICs (Network Interface Card)
✓ ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) adapters
✓ WAPs (Wireless Access Point)
✓ Modems
✓ Transceivers (media converters)
✓ Firewalls
What we Learn
✓ Describe how hubs and switches work
✓ Explain how hubs and switches can be connected to create larger networks
✓ Describe how bridges, routers, and gateways work
✓ Describe how routing protocols are used for dynamic routing
✓ Explain the purpose of other networking components such as Channel Service Unit/Digital Service Unit (CSU/DSU) and gateways
✓ Describe the purpose and function of network cards
✓ Describe how to identify a MAC address
✓ Understand the function of a transceiver
✓ Describe the purpose of a firewall