In terms of networking, physical hardware plays a significant role in determining operational capability. Through deliberate configuring of these components, users are enabled to create a network infrastructure that can be scaled to fit the needs of any application. For anybody with an interest in networking for personal or professional use, it is critical to have an understanding of the several networking parts and their functions. It is important to note that while larger topologies may implement all of the devices listed, a smaller network may be adequately supported with only a few. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the various commercially available network hardware.
Hub
The hub is the device that serves as a nucleus, connecting the different computer components of the system together. With multiple input and output ports, hubs may identify network errors as they occur from various sources. While hubs have been mostly replaced with switches, they still may be found on some legacy architecture.
Switches
Like hubs, switches are multiport devices which serve as interconnects for different network regions. They are generally "smarter" than hubs in terms of network information gathering and filtering. With routing capabilities and enhanced security competence, switches are integral data link components. When choosing a switch, one should determine their application's power, speed, and budget demands, since these devices vary significantly in price and performance. An additional consideration for those with a rapidly-expanding network is the capacity for stackability, which enables multiple switches to be configured as one module.
Bridge
Bridging is a network strategy that involves aggregating several networks into a single entity. Unlike routing, which treats each network as an independent constituent, bridges treat all network segments as one. Depending on the configuration, bridges may either be dual-port or multiport. Since switches can effectively manage data flow between discrete networks in their regular function, bridges are also largely being replaced.
Modem
One of the oldest networking devices, modems convert digital signals into analog signals so that they may be transmitted across telephone lines. On the receiving end, modems convert the signal back to digital, allowing connected devices to accept the output.
Repeater
Oftentimes, the signal of a network may not reach the target devices due to physical barriers or range issues. In these cases, a repeater is used to receive and then amplify the signal at a higher power level. If configured correctly, a multi-site connection may support up to thirty repeaters. Users should be aware, however, of the capacity for repeaters to amplify noise in addition to the intended signal.
Access Point
The wireless access allows Wi-Fi-enabled devices to connect to a wired, commonly LAN, network. Depending on the model, the access point may either be considered fat or thin. A fat device is one that requires manual configuration of several properties, including network and security settings. Once these devices are in use, they are typically left alone since reconfiguration is intensive. Meanwhile, thin access points allow for remote configuration, making them more readily accessible as the network develops and expands.
Conclusion
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