Networking Components Quick Guide

Hubs Device that splits a network connection into multiple computers Data is transmitted to all devices attached Computers decide if data is for them Being replaced with Switches and Routers Used to connect segments of a LAN Would use in a multi-PC environment where network speed is NOT the most important factor Price Range $20 - >$20,000

Switches Uses physical device address in network messages to deliver to correct computer Before sending – checks for destination, then sends Connects the source and destination directly therefore increasing network speed Would use in a multi-PC environment where network speed is important Price Range: $20->$20,000

Routers Located at gateways connecting multiple networks Connects at least 2 networks together (WANs/LANs – LAN/ISP) Use forwarding tables to determine the BEST path for data Ultimate job – route packet from host to destination Most commonly used to connect home networks with ISP Price Range: $16->$20,000

Bridges Connects two Local Area Networks (LANs) or two segments of the same LAN using the same protocol ISP would use to connect segments of network Can be hardware or software Price Range: $20 (built into another device like a router) - >$30,000

Gateways Entrance point from one network to another In business – the computer that routes traffic from a workstation to outside network In home – the ISP that connects to the internet Can act as proxy server and firewall Price Range: $10 - >$100,000

Firewalls System designed to prevent unauthorized access to/from private network Can be hardware or software Used to prevent unauthorized users from accessing private networks Techniques – packet filtering, application gateway, circuit- level gateway, proxy server Prevents harm from getting in or out of network Price Range: $5 - >$500,000

Wireless Access Points Acts as a communication hub for users of wireless devices to wired networks Can be hardware or software Extends physical range of service a wireless user has access to Provides heightened security Used almost everywhere – business/home/school Price Range: $12 - >$10,000