FC308 Network Hardware and Topologies

Study Notes

FC308 Information Technology: Network Hardware and Topologies

The course covers network hardware and topologies.
Lesson objectives include network hardware, physical vs. logical topology, overview of topologies, star physical topology vs. bus physical topology, and modern Ethernet.
A review session covers categorizing network size and transmission mediums.
This session will discover networking hardware and then look at physical network topologies.
Network devices are those commonly found in computer networks (e.g., switches, routers, hubs, modems).
Examples of network devices include switches, bridges, file servers, network clouds, routers, PCs, hubs, modems, and more. (illustrated in a diagram).
Questions about network devices were asked, such as which device connects different networks, simply broadcasts to all connected devices, and converts analogue signals to digital ones.
A router is a network device that forwards data packets between different networks selecting the best path for efficient data transmission. Its purpose is in connecting multiple networks (home, business, or internet), routing data packets between them using IP addresses. It ensures data is sent to the right destination.
A switch is a hardware device in a local area network connecting multiple devices like computers, printers, servers. It uses MAC addresses to forward data to the correct destination in the network. Its purpose is in receiving incoming data packets and forwarding them to their intended destination. This reduces unnecessary network traffic.
A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that allows computers to connect to a network, converting data formats, and identifying devices using MAC addresses.
Wireless network interface cards or adapters are hardware components enabling wireless connections. It leverages intricate technology to allow devices to communicate without physical cables. It converts digital to radio waves for communication.
A hub is a basic networking device that connects multiple devices in a LAN. It broadcasts a message to all other connected devices, used less often and replaced by switches.
A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a networking device that allows wireless devices like smartphones and tablets to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi. It acts as an interface between wired and wireless devices enabling seamless communication.
A modem is a network device that converts digital data into analog signals for traditional lines to transmit over long distances. It also converts analog signals back into digital signals. It is used to connect to the internet.
Key network device functions, features, and examples are presented.
Questions about different network devices were presented for identification.

Physical or Logical Topologies

Physical topology looks at how nodes are connected physically, while a logical topology describes how data flows.
Physical network topologies include Bus Topology, Star Topology, Ring Topology, Mesh Topology, and Tree/Hierarchical Topology.

Bus Topology

A bus topology connects devices to a single cable or backbone for bi-directional data transmission.

Star Topology

A star topology has a central hub or switch that all other devices are connected to. Any data sent through this is sent through the centre device.

Ring Topology

Each networked device in a ring topology is connected to two other devices, forming a ring. Data travels through the ring until reaching the destination.

Mesh Topology

Devices in a mesh topology are linked to each other, often seen in wireless networks. Data transfers are distributed even with connection failures.

Tree Topology

A tree topology organizes devices like branches of a tree. There's a single connection between any group of devices that form a parent-child hierarchy.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Topologies

The document emphasizes the importance of understanding the advantages and disadvantages of various networking topologies.

Modern Networks

Current networks usually utilize wired Ethernet with twisted-pair cables, creating a star physical topology.
Central devices like switches facilitate seamless data transmission and help avoid collisions.

Summary

The lesson reviewed different hardware components and network topologies.
Key functions of the hardware, including routers, switches, NIC's, modem, and WAPs were covered.
Physical and logical topologies, including star, bus, ring, mesh and tree topologies were also covered.