Networks - Hardware

• What does connecting devices in networks require?

  Specific pieces of hardware
• What are the main components of network hardware?

  • NICs (Network Interface Cards)
  • Switches
  • Routers
• What is a Network Interface Controller (NIC)?

  An internal hardware piece for network connection
• How have NICs changed in modern networks?

  They are now built into the motherboard
• Do NICs exist for wired and wireless connections?

  Yes, for both types of connections
• What is the function of switches in a network?

  They connect devices on a LAN
• What do switches receive from devices?

  Data in frames
• What do switches do with the data they receive?

  Transmit data to the correct device
• What is the role of routers in a network?

  Transmit data between networks
• How are routers connected to networks?

  They are always connected to at least two networks
• How do routers direct data?

  By using destination addresses in packets
• What do Ethernet ports connect to?

  LANs (Local Area Networks)
• What is an ADSL port used for?

  Connecting to the internet
• What do routers do with data packets?

  Direct them to their destination
• How do routers manage data traffic?

  By directing packets to their destinations
• Where are routers commonly used?

  In homes and offices
• What is a typical feature of home routers?

  They often include switches and wireless access
• What type of cable is commonly used for wired Ethernet connections?

  CAT 5e and CAT 6 cables
• What is a twisted pair cable?

  A cable containing pairs of twisted copper wires
• What is the advantage of twisted pair cables?

  They reduce internal interference
• What are coaxial cables made of?

  A single copper wire surrounded by insulation
• What is the function of fiber optic cables?

  Transmit data as light signals
• How do fiber optic cables compare to copper cables?

  They offer higher performance and less interference
• What is a disadvantage of fiber optic cables?

  They are more expensive than copper cables
• What is the primary use of fiber optic cables?

  High-speed data transmission
• Why are fiber optic cables considered high performance?

  They transmit data with minimal loss
• What is the main characteristic of fiber optic cables?

  They transmit data as light
• What is the benefit of using fiber optic cables in networks?

  Higher bandwidth and faster speeds
• How do different types of cables affect network performance?

  They determine speed, distance, and reliability
• What is the main function of network cables?

  To connect devices and transmit data
• Why is it important to choose the right type of cable?

  It affects network speed and reliability
• How does cable quality influence network performance?

  Higher quality cables reduce interference and loss
• What surrounds wires for insulation?

  A plastic layer
• What is the purpose of the plastic layer around wires?

  For insulation and shielding from interference
• What do fiber optic cables transmit data as?

  Light
• Why are fiber optic cables considered high performance?

  They don't suffer from interference
• How do fiber optic cables compare to metallic cables in terms of distance transmission?

  They can transmit over larger distances without signal loss
• What is a common use of metallic mesh?

  To provide shielding from outside interference
• What are two common wireless technologies mentioned?

  Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
• How does Bluetooth typically connect devices?

  Direct connection between two devices