1. Hardware & Software Needed For LAN and WAN
Network Interface Card – connects the device to the network and allows communication between the computer
Wireless Access Point (WAP) – connected to the network by a cable and positioned so that it can send and receive the wireless signal
Modem – converts digital to analogue signals and back again
Router – sends info between networks using the topology by selecting the best path. Translates information between networks. Can connect a LAN to a WAN
Hub – joins lots of computers to the network via a single link. Signals received on any port are transmitted to all other ports.
Switch – receives data, examines it and then sends it to the appropriate port.

2. Hardware & Software cont.
Gateway – connects and passes packets between two network segments that use different communication protocols
Bridge – connects and passs packets between two network segments that use the same communication protocols
Repeater – Used to strengthen a signal as I is passed along a network cable. Over a distance, a signal would degrade
Server – controls aspects of the computer
Eg printer server
internet server