Understanding DSL and Wireless Modems

Modems

• DSL Modem: Connects computers to DSL lines for digital data transmission; receives data from DSL lines.
• Wireless Modem: Utilizes mobile service networks for wireless internet access from computers or mobile devices; may feature built-in or external antennas.
• ISDN Modem: Provides broadband connection via ISDN lines for digital data transmission to and from computers; can include USB adapters.

Wireless Access Points and Routers

• Wireless Access Point (WAP): Acts as a central communication device, connecting computers wirelessly to a wired network using Wi-Fi.
• Router: Connects multiple devices and routes data packets to their correct destinations; suitable for various network sizes; operates by forwarding data paths efficiently.

Network Cards, Hubs, and Switches

• Network Card (NIC): Allows devices without built-in networking capability to access networks; coordinates data transmission.
• Hub/Switch: Central point for connecting cables; hubs are typically used in larger networks, while switches are used in smaller setups; may include routers in some configurations.

Transmission Media

• Transmission Media: Materials or channels through which communication signals travel; includes various types and can carry multiple signals simultaneously.
• Broadband: Transmits large volumes of data simultaneously, often referred to as bandwidth; optimal performance necessitates low latency.

Latency

• Latency: Measures the time taken for a signal to traverse from one location to another, impacted by distance, media type, and node quantity.

Communication Technologies

• Microwaves: High-speed signal transmission using radio waves with line-of-sight requirements for effective communication.
• Communication Satellites: Receive microwave signals, amplify them, and retransmit back to Earth stations; utilized for various applications like navigation and broadcasting.

Internet Access

• Satellite Internet Connection: Enables remote access to the internet using satellites, often paired with a satellite dish; can be costly.

Network Architecture

• Client-Server: Configuration where clients depend on the server for resources; servers orchestrate access to hardware and data.
• Peer-to-Peer: Network type where each device (peer) shares resources with others, equally responsible for data transfer.

Network Topology

• Types of Topologies: Includes bus and ring structures; can affect performance depending on the specific setup.

Network Communication Standards and Protocols

• ANSI and IEEE: Organizations responsible for proposing and establishing network communication standards, influencing device interaction.

Ethernet and Token Ring

• Ethernet: No central device regulates data transmission, which can lead to collisions when multiple devices send data simultaneously; supports a high data rate.
• Token Ring: Utilizes a passing token to control data transmission in a unidirectional manner; ensures only one device transmits at a time, preventing collisions.

TCP/IP and Wi-Fi

• TCP/IP: A network protocol defining rules for message routing; utilizes packet switching for effective data transfer.
• Wi-Fi (802.11): Wireless networking standard using radio waves for communication; offers data transfer rates ranging from 11 Mbps to 7 Gbps, easily integrates with Ethernet technologies.