Key Network Devices for Network+ (N10-009)

A set of vocabulary flashcards focused on key network devices and protocols relevant for the Network+ (N10-009) exam.

Router

A Layer 3 device that connects separate networks and forwards packets using IP addresses and routing tables.

Switch

A Layer 2 device that connects devices within a network, forwarding frames using MAC addresses.

Firewall

A device that filters traffic based on rules (e.g., IP, ports) to secure networks, operating at Layers 3-4 or higher.

Wireless Access Point (WAP)

A Layers 1-2 device that connects wireless devices to a wired network using Wi-Fi standards (e.g., 802.11).

Hub

A Layer 2 device that broadcasts all data to every port, causing collisions and inefficiency.

Network Address Translation (NAT)

A router function that maps multiple private IP addresses to a single public IP for internet access.

DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol; assigns IP addresses automatically, often managed by a router.

VLAN

Virtual Local Area Network; segments network traffic on a switch for better organization and security.

Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)

A switch protocol that prevents loops in redundant network paths by blocking certain links.

Port Security

A switch feature that restricts access to specific MAC addresses, disabling ports for violations.

Routing Table

A router’s list of paths to forward packets, including static routes or dynamic ones (e.g., OSPF).

MAC Address Table

A switch’s record of device MAC addresses and ports for directed frame forwarding.

Stateful Firewall

A firewall that tracks connection states (e.g., request/reply) for smarter traffic filtering.

Stateless Firewall

A firewall that applies rules to each packet individually, without tracking connections.

Broadcast Storm

Excessive network traffic from broadcasts, often caused by loops, mitigated by STP on switches.