Networking Devices and Cables

Networking Basics

• A hub connects multiple ports that devices use to join a network.
• A switch intelligently connects devices within a network, managing data traffic more efficiently than a hub.

Cables

• Cables are essential for connecting network devices and transferring data.
• Types of cables include:
  • Coaxial cables
  • Twisted pair cables
  • Fiber optic cables
  • Patch cables
  • Data cables

Network Resources

• A network comprises various resources, such as printers, disks, scanners, and memory, shared among connected computers for optimal utilization.

Types of Networks

• Computer networks are categorized based on communication needs, geographic area, and hardware.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

• PANs connect devices within approximately 10 meters, suitable for home or small offices.
• Common devices in a PAN include laptops, smartphones, tablets, wearables, and printers.

Local Area Network (LAN)

• A LAN connects numerous computers within a limited area, typically within 1 kilometer.
• Commonly found in schools, offices, and research institutions, it utilizes either wired or wireless connections.

Server Requirements

• Dedicated servers exclusively serve a single task, while non-dedicated servers share resources among multiple users.

Nodes or Clients

• A node or client is any device connected to a network. For example, a network with a file server, five computers, and two printers has eight nodes.
• Each node has a unique network address for identification.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

• A NIC, or Ethernet card, connects computers and devices via Ethernet cables.
• It is crucial for enabling communication and resource sharing in a network.

Connectors

• Connectors assist in linking components such as hubs, switches, and servers with computers through cables.

Switch/Hub

• A switch or hub serves as a device for connecting multiple devices to a network.
• The term internet (with a lowercase 'i') refers to interconnected smaller networks, while the Internet (capital 'I') denotes the global network encompassing millions of web pages, emails, and servers.

Network Topology

• Network topology outlines the physical and logical arrangement of devices, aiding in node location and data transmission.
• Common topologies include:
  • Bus Topology: All devices connect along one cable, making the entire network prone to failure if the cable is damaged.
  • Star Topology: Devices connect to a central server; if one cable fails, only the connected device is affected. It is the most prevalent topology in LANs.
  • Ring Topology: Nodes are arranged in a circular layout, with data flowing in one direction. A failure in any connection disrupts the entire network.