Network hardware

Network hardware

1. Cables

   • Ethernet Cable
     • Used to connect a device to a LAN
     • Examples: CAT 5e, CAT 6
     • Twisted pair cable - made from copper wires which are twisted to reduce interference
   • Coaxial Cable
     • Made of a single copper wire surrounded by plastic and metallic mesh to prevent outside interference
     • Examples: CAT 5e, CAT 6
   • Fibre Optic Cables
     • Transmits data by light
     • High performance so most expensive
     • Do not suffer from interference and can transmit over long distance

2. Hardware

   • Network Interface Card
     • Allows a device to connect to a network
   • Switch
     • Connects devices to a LAN
     • Receives data from one device and transmits data to another device with the correct MAC address
   • Router
     • Transmits data between atleast two networks
     • Direct data to their destination
     • used in homes and offices to connect the LAN to the internet

3. Wireless

   • Uses radio waves to transmit data
   • You need a WAP device - a switch that allows you to connect wirelessly