NETWORK II - NETWORK DEVICES (SS3 FIRST TERM)

NETWORK DEVICES

Definition of Network Devices

Network devices are components used to connect computer or other electronic devices together so that they can share files or resources. Some network devices are examined below:

1. Hubs: A hub is a device that joins multiple computers or other network devices to form a single network. It can also be defined as a common connection point for devices in a network. A hub does not read any of the data passing through them and not aware of their source or destination.

There are differences between Hubs and Switches. Majorly, hubs come in three different types, namely:

1.   Active Hub

2.   Passive Hub

3.   Intelligence Hub

Active Hub: As its name suggests, Active Hub is a hub which can amplify or regenerate the information signal. This type of bus has an advantage as it also amplifies the incoming signal as well as forwarding it to multiple devices. It can upgrade the properties if incoming signal before sending them to destination.

 Passive Hub: Passive Hub works like a simple Bridge. It is used for just creating a connection between various devices. It does not have the ability to amplify or regenerate any incoming signal. It receives signal and then forward it to multiple devices.

 Intelligence Hub: This is the third and last type of Bus. It can perform tasks of both Active and Passive buses. Also, it can perform some other tasks like Bridging and routing. It increases the speed and effectiveness of total network thus makes the performance of whole network fast and efficient.

 Applications Of Hub: Networking Hub is widely used by networking connectivity device. It has many advantages over other connectivity devices. Some Application of Networking Hub are given below:

·         Hubs are used to create small Home Networks.

·         Hubs are used for monitoring the networks.

·         Hubs are used in Organizations and Computer Labs for connectivity.

It makes one device or peripheral available throughout the whole network.

2. Switches: A network switch is a small hardware device that joins multiple computer networks together within a local area network. Switch generally contains more intelligence than a hub. Switches are capable of inspecting data packets as they are received, determine the source and destination device of each packet, and forward them appropriately.

3. Modem (MOdulator-DEModulator): A modem is an electronic device that allows computers to communicate over telephone lines.

4. Router: Routers are devices that join multiple wired or wireless networks together.

5. Network Interface Card (NIC): A network interface card (NIC) is a circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network.

Benefits of Networking

1.   It helps to enhance connectivity

2.   Site (software) licenses are likely to be cheaper than buying several standalone licenses.

3.   Files can easily be shared between users.

4.   Network users can communicate by email and instant messenger..

5.   Data is easy to backup as all the data is stored on the file server.

6.   Networking offers a quick and easy way to share files directly.

7.   All computers in the network can share resources such as printers, fax machines, modems and scanners.

CLASS ACTIVITY

1. List 2 advantages and disadvantages of a Star network topology

2. List 2 advantages and disadvantages of a Bus network topology

3. What is the difference between a Hub and Router

4. State the main difference between a Switch and a Hub.