Network Hardware_EH

Network Hardware_EH

1. Network Interface Card

   • Every device (node) on the network will require a Network Interface of some kind. This can be in the form of a dedicated card or an electronic chip integrated into the motherboard.
   • The purpose of a network interface card (NIC) is to provide a connection to the network (either wired or wireless).
   • The NIC converts data from the nodes into a format that is compatible with the network. This format is called the 'network protocol' - a set of standard rules that all connected devices must follow.
     • This is called its Media Access Control or MAC address.
       • The MAC address means every node on the network can be uniquely identified so that data is sent to the correct place.
         • MAC addresses are stored as a 12 digit hexadecimal number
   • Every NIC has a unique address hard-wired or 'burned' into it i.e. configured in the hardware.

2. Hub

3. Switch

4. Router

5. Cables

6. WAP

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