NETWORKING COMPONENTS

Buddy Steele

Assignment 3, Part 1

CECS-5460: Summer 2014

HUB

How it Works: Operating at various OSI Level1, a hub connects

computers in a network and allows information to be sent between them. A hub is not able to identify the source or destination of information sent through it, so it delivers the information sent to every computer/device connected to it.

Typical Use: Typically, hubs would be used to link all

computers in a network so they can all send and/or receive data to one another. But, hub-like capabilities are commonly built in to routers and other devices, so a stand-alone hub is rarely useful for the consumer.

Cost: $20 - $100 Cost increases as number of ports increases.

SWITCH

How it Works: Operating at OSI Level 2, a switch also sends

and receives information between computers in a network. But, a switch is able to identify the destination for the information sent and is therefore able to send information only to specific computers that are connected. Also, a switch is able to send and receive information at the same time.

Typical Use: Because it can send and receive simultaneously,

switches are good for environments where one needs to share information quickly in real time, such as: local gaming, media sharing, etc.

Cost: $40 - $250 Cost increases as number of ports increases.

ROUTER

How it Works: Operating at OSI Level 3, a router connects two

existing networks. The router directs network traffic and enables all computers on a network to connect to the internet through one modem.

Typical Use: Routers are generally used to allow multiple

devices to connect to the internet. Offering both wired and wireless connections, routers are good for connecting multiple devices in the home or office to a single internet connection.

Cost: $65 - $200 Higher priced models often include wireless AP,

bridge, and multiple ports.

BRIDGE

How it Works: Operating at OSI Levels 1 and 2, a bridge is

used to connect two or more networks so that networks of different types can communicate with one another (i.e. a wired network and a wireless network.)

Typical Use: A bridge is often used when file sharing is

needed between multiple networks. In an office environment, a bridge is helpful in that wireless network users can share files and communicate with wired network users.

Cost: $45 - $100

GATEWAY

How it Works: Capable of operating at any OSI Level, a gateway

is a node which allows computer networks to communicate despite operating at different protocols. The gateway will retrieve information that is accessed outside of the local network.

Typical Use: Gateways are typically used as the source for

accessing and retrieving information on the internet. A gateway allows a user to access websites and other content that is not accessible on their local network.

Cost: $250 - $3,500 Cost increases as available options and

capabilities increase.

FIREWALL

How it Works: Operating at various OSI Levels, depending on the

implementation, a firewall acts as a security device to filter and control what is sent and received by a computer or network. A firewall can be either a hardware or software tool and can be configured to allow or block specific content.

Typical Use: In most cases, a router contains a built in firewall

for a home or small office network. But, software firewalls on individual computers can also help keep a computer protected when accessing the internet outside of their usual network.

Cost: Free - $3,500 Some software firewall solutions are pre-installed on

devices or exist at the ISP level. Dedicated firewall solutions increase in price as their capabilities and customization potential increases.

WIRELESS ACCESS POINT

How it Works: Operating at OSI Level 2, a wireless access

point connects devices to a wired network via wireless connection. A device can locate the access point wirelessly and connect to the network to which the AP is connected.

Typical Use: An access point is typically used to connect

devices to a network without having to be in close proximity to the network. Many routers have built in AP’s allowing a user to connect directly with it, but AP’s can also be added to existing modems with built in routers.

Cost: $40 - $1,000 Cost increases as speed and device support

potential increases.

ALL DEVICES IN NETWORK DIAGRAM

Switch or Hub

Bridge

Wireless AP

FirewallGateway

Router

Internet