Four elements of an ICT network

Four elements of an ICT network

1. Data transfer media

   • Metal wires
     • Copper
     • Ethernet
       • UTP(unshielded twisted pair)
       • STP(Shielded twisted pair)
   • Fibre Optic Cable
   • Wireless - radiowaves
   • This is the material through which data travels from one computer to another in a network

2. Standards and Protocols

   • For devices to communicate with each other in a network certain standards need to be used

3. Communication devices

   • Communication devices are those pieces of hardware that are needed to change a stand alone computer into a network computer
   • Router
   • Network Interface Card
   • Hub
   • Switch

4. Networking Software

   • Networks need software to tell the connected devices how to communicate with each other
     • Network operating systems software
       • Is an operating system that includes special functions for connecting computers and devices in a LAN
       • Security functions are built in
     • Network management software
       • A network manager is responsible for a network – this software helps with the management of the network

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