Networking Hardware Devices (1/2)

What is the primary function of a router?

To connect different networks together and route data packets between them using IP addresses

Which OSI layer does a router primarily operate at?

Layer three (network layer)

What device is typically the default gateway on a home network?

The router is typically the default gateway

What is NAT?

Network Address Translation

• allows multiple private IP addresses to share one public IP address

Why is NAT commonly used in homes?

It conserves public IPv4 addresses and add a layer of security

What is DHCP, and how does it relate to routers?

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

• automatically assigned IP addresses; many routers provide DHCP services

What is the primary function of a switch?

To connect devices within the same local network (LAN).

Which OSI layer does a standard switch operate at?

Layer two (data link layer)

What information does a switch use to forward frames?

MAC addresses

What is MAC address?

Media Access Control address

• A permanent identifier that can’t be changed assigned to a NIC

• 48 bits long and written in hexadecimal

What is a MAC address table?

A table that maps MAC addresses to switch ports

What is a managed switch?

A switch that supports configuration and monitoring features

What is an unmanaged switch?

A plug-and-play switch with no configuration options

What is the purpose of a wireless access point?

To provide wireless devices access to a wired network

Which wireless standards are commonly used by access points?

IEEE 802.11 standards (Wi-Fi)

What is an SSID?

Service Set Identifier - the name of the wireless network

What is the difference between a router with Wi-Fi and a standalone access point?

A wireless router combines routing and wireless functions, while an access point only provides wireless connectivity

What is Power over Ethernet (PoE)

A technology that delivers electrical power and data over the same ethernet cable

What type of cable is commonly used with PoE?

Ethernet cable such as Cat 5E, Cat 6, or higher

Which devices are commonly powered by PoE?

IP phones, wireless access points, IP cameras, and some IoT devices

When would you use a PoE Injector used?

When you need to power a single device

When would you use a PoE connector?

When you need to power multiple devices

What is the advantage of using PoE?

Eliminate the need for separate power cables and outlets

What IEEE standard defines PoE?

802.3AF

What are the PoE standards?

PoE = 802.3af

PoE+ = 802.3at

PoE++ = 802.3bt (type 3 and 4)

What is the max power of 802.3af?

15.4W

What is the max power of 802.3at?

30W

What is the max power of 802.11bt?

60W (type 3) and 100W (type 4)

What devices does the 802.3af standard support?

Wireless access points, static surveillance cameras, VoIP phones

What devices does the 802.3at standard support?

Alarm systems, point/tilt/zoom cameras, video IP phones

What devices does the 802.3bt (type 3 and 4) standard support?

Type 3 = Multi radio wireless access points and video conferencing

Type 4 = Laptops, flat screen monitors, LED lightning