Networks

Networks

1. Hardware

   • Router
     • So that all of the devices can connect to a central point in a local area network. Most routers will have WiFi and Ethernet connections.
     • Most routers can connect you to a wide area network (such as the Internet) as it has a modem built in.
     • They allow you to share resources such as your internet connection, printers and files across different devices.
   • Switch
     • Switches can connect to other switches and routers to build large local area networks (like a school).
     • So that all of the devices can connect to a central point on a local area network.
   • Ethernet cable
     • So that you can connect your device to a router, switch or another computer. They allow high data transfer speeds across your local area network of up to 1000Mbps.
   • Network interface card
     • Any device which connects to a LAN or a WAN must have a network interface card! The card will connect your device to a switch, router or a wireless access point.
     • In portable devices a network interface card will be wireless. Desktop PCs will normally have a network interface with an Ethernet port and an antenna to connect wirelessly.