1. Communications & Computer Networks Resource Notes - Network Hardware
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Communications & Computer Networks
Resource Notes - Network Hardware

2. Network Hardware
In order for communication to take place between computers, a data path must exist between them.
This data path can be:
Wired - using cables
Wireless - using carrier waves (radio waves etc.)
A combination of wired and wireless (Hybrid)

3. Network Hardware Network Adaptors
Also known as a Network Interface Card (NIC)
Computers must have a network adaptor installed
This can be a wired adaptor
Or a wireless adaptor
Wired & wireless adaptors can be used in the same network

4. Network Hardware Network Switch Used with network cables
Connects the computers in the network to each other
They form the data path between the computers

5. Network Hardware Wireless Access Point
Used to connect wireless computers to a wired network
Antenna to communicate with the wireless computers
Cabled to a network switch to communicate with the wired computers

6. Network Hardware Network Router
Used to connect a network (LAN) to the Internet
Or to another network.