Basic Networking Components

David Ingles

Basic parts of the networkHubSwitchRouterBridgeGatewayFirewall Wireless AP

Network HubsHubs sends data from

one computer to all other computers on a network

Operates on Layer 1 of OSI model

Acts as a “repeater” for signal passing through

Declining in use in favor of switches and routers

SwitchesRelays traffic using

Layer 2 addressContains software

that supports building of routing tables

Substantial improvement over Hubs

Used to join multiple computers to a LAN

BridgesSimilar to a switch in

functionUsed to combine two

or more independent networks into a single unit

Usually associated with LAN device using MAC addresses

Operates on OSI layers 1 and 2

RoutersMore powerful than hubs, switches, or bridges

Principal operations at OSI layer 3 with IP Addresses

Often configured as Firewalls

Utilize extensive network management features

Can be configured to operate as Bridges

Used to connect multiple computers together as a LAN and provide connection to WAN

Wireless Access PointsConnects wired and

wireless networksOperates at IEEE

802.11 specifcationsMany Routers have

WAP features integrated into them

Used to connect wireless devices to a network

GatewaysNetwork node used

to interface with networks using other protocols

Can operate at any network level

Serves as access point to another network

Usually integrated into other hardware

FirewallsProtects computers

from unauthorized access

Hardware or software-based

Often integrated into Routers or switches

How it all connects

Price RangesHubs- $15- $1000Switches $50-$100,000Bridges $20-$4000Routers $10- $1500WAPs $10- $4000Gateways $10-$12000Firewalls $150- $200,000 for hardware

$20-$500 for software