Computer Networking Devices

Study Notes

Network Devices

A Network Interface Card (NIC) enables a device to send and receive data over a network.
A Repeater is a network device that receives a signal and retransmits it at a higher power level, extending the signal range.
A Bridge connects two LAN segments and forwards packets between them, operating at the data link layer of the OSI model and using MAC addresses to forward packets.
A Gateway connects two networks with different protocols, translating data between them so they can communicate with each other.
A Load Balancer distributes network traffic across multiple servers, improving performance and availability by ensuring no single server becomes overloaded.
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a type of storage device attached to a network, allowing multiple devices to access and share files.
A Content Filter examines network traffic, blocking or allowing access to specific types of content.

Computer Networks

A computer network facilitates communication and data transfer between devices, applications, and users.
Network types include:
- Local Area Network (LAN)
- Wide Area Network (WAN)
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- Personal Area Network (PAN)
- Storage Area Network (SAN)
- Campus Area Network (CAN)
- Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Network Topologies

Bus Topology:
- Advantages: easy to set up and maintain, requires less cable, and suitable for small networks.
- Disadvantages: not very secure, can be slow with many devices, and difficult to identify and fix problems.
- Applications: small networks with limited devices, non-critical applications, and cost-effective solutions.

Network Fundamentals

Understanding network architectures, topologies, and protocols is essential for effective communication between network devices.
The OSI model ensures standardized communication between devices from different manufacturers.

OSI Model

The OSI model consists of seven layers:
1. Physical Layer: defines physical network characteristics.
2. Data Link Layer: provides reliable data transfer over a physical link.
3. Network Layer: routes data between networks.
4. Transport Layer: provides end-to-end data transfer between devices.
5. Session Layer: establishes, manages, and terminates connections.
6. Presentation Layer: converts data into a format that can be understood by the receiving device.
7. Application Layer: provides services and interfaces for applications to communicate with each other.

Description

This quiz covers the different devices used in computer networking, including Network Interface Cards, repeaters, and bridges. It explains their functions and applications in extending network range and connectivity.