Network Terminology

AP Cyber Unit 3 network terminology

Network

A group of interconnected devices that communicate with each other to share resources and information.

Protocols

Sets of rules governing data communication between devices.

Packets

Small units of data transmitted over a network.

Host

A device or server connected to a network that provides resources or services to other devices.

MAC address

A unique identifier assigned to network interfaces for communications at the data link layer of a network. It is used to ensure that data packets are sent to the correct device within a local network. Think of like a device fingerprint.

IP Address

A numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It serves two main functions: identifying the host or network interface and providing the location addressing. An IP address can be either static or dynamic and is essential for routing internet traffic.

Switch

A networking device that connects devices within a local area network (LAN) and uses MAC addresses to forward data to the correct destination.

Router

A networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It connects different networks, directing traffic and determining the best path for data to travel.

WAP (Wireless Access Point)

A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi or other standards. It enables users to access the network and the Internet without physical cables.

DNS (Domain Name System)

The system that translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing users to access websites using human-readable names instead of numerical addresses.

ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)

A communication protocol used for finding a host's MAC address when only its IP address is known. ARP operates within a local area network to map IP addresses to physical machine addresses.