Network Components

                        Network Components

Computer network components include the major parts that are needed to install a network at the office or home. These hardware components include cable, hub, switch, NIC (network interface card), modem and router. Depending on the type of network, you can install network components. For example, in a wireless network you don’t need cables, hubs so on.

Major computer network components are:

1. Network interface card (NIC)

 

Network Interface Card

NIC is a device that enables a computer to talk with other computer network. A NIC will allow a computer to send and receive electrical or radio signals in a manner that other computers can understand.

There are two types of network cards; wired and wireless. The wired NIC uses cables and connectors as a medium to transfer data, whereas in the wireless card, the connection is made using antenna that employs radio wave technology. All modem laptop computers incorporated wireless NIC in addition to the wired adapter.

2. Hub

HUB

Hub is a device that splits a network connection into multiple computers. It is like a distribution centre. When a computer request information from a network or a specific computer, it sends the request to the hub through a cable. This hub will receive the request and transmit it to the entire network. Each computer in the network should then figure out whether the broadcast data is for them or not.
Currently hubs are becoming obsolete and replaced by more advanced communication devices such as Switchs and Routers.

3. Switch

A switch is a device that distributes packets, or blocks of data, between computers in a network. Switches function in a similar fashion to hubs, but are much more efficient. A switch can send a packet directly to a specific destination, instead of sending it to every computer in a network.

4. Cables and Connectors

 

Fiber Optics

Cable is one way of transmission media which can transmit communication signals. The wired network typology uses special type of cable to connect computers on a network.

There are a number of solid transmission media types, which are listed below:

A)   Twisted pair wire

B)    Coaxial cable

C)    Fiber-optic cable

5. Router

 

Router

 A router is a device that joins two different networks together. Home networks usually employ routers to connect to the internet. The majority of routers contain a switch within them so that all of the computers on a network can communicate.

6. Modems

Modem

A modem enables you to connect your computer to the available internet connection over the existing telephone line.

A modem is not necessary for LAN, but required for internet connection such as dial-up and DSL.