Networking Components BY: JOSON ABRAHAM LTEC 4550

Network Hubs Hubs are devices that are capable of connecting multiple devices together. It sends the information from one interface and replicates it to other interfaces. It does not know anything about packets, or who was supposed to receive the data. Hubs were typically used in businesses to send information to multiple devices since they are relatively cheap, although it tends to cause unnecessary traffic. Network Hubs usually cost anywhere from $10 on Amazon, to a couple hundred dollars for the more fancy ones.

Network Switches A switch is acts as a controller, which allows computers to talk to each other more efficiently Switches are used in business networks and in the classroom. Switches are efficient in what they do and are relatively cheap at around $10 dollars, and range to around 20 thousand dollars for large enterprise versions.

Network Routers Network Routers are used to send data packets between networks. Most Routers today have incorporated the jobs of network hubs and switches. They are also able to send data wirelessly. Most anyone that has a network will need to use a network router. Typically the cost of a router goes for $25 dollars for a simple one, to as much as a thousand dollars for enterprise routers.

Network Bridge Network bridges can be software or hardware that connect multiple networks together. This device may be used in small businesses to connect multiple networks in the building. Typically this does not cost much because it can be as simple as a few setting adjustments, or it may be costly to have an IT professional set it up in a professional environment.

Network Gateway Network Gateway is a system that joins two networks together that use two different protocols. Network Gateways are capable of being implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. They can work on any level of the OSI model.

Network Firewall Network Firewalls are a security device that either allows or rejects network access between a trusted and untrusted area. All traffic goes through it and it is the determining factor if access is approved or denied. Network Firewalls are used all the time at home, in businesses, schools, and large corporations. Pricing on Network Firewalls can be quite expensive. Typically the more secure the network, the higher the price is for a strong firewall.

Network Wireless AP Wireless Access Points are devices used on LAN connections that allow the network to go wireless. Newer Wireless Access Points allow for up to 255 clients. Typically these range in price from a simple one for $5-$50 all the way up to $20,000 for enterprise systems.

Internet Router Gateway Switch Bridge Wireless AP Laptop Desktop Hub

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