CSEC 600 Networking Basics

network

a group of devices that share data and resources, allowing collaberation, access, and communication

modem

converts digital data from your device into signals for phone or cable lines, and vice versa, ISP level configurations and secure handoffs

router

directs data traffic between different networks, firewalls, strong passwords,a nd firmware updates

firewall

acts as a security gate, filtering and controlling incoming and outgoing network access, rule configurations, default-deny policies

switch

connects devices within the same local network and forwards data to intended device, VLANs and port security

access point

allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network, expanding network reach, secure SSIDs and WPA3 encryption

LAN

local area network, covers small area like a single building

WAN

connects multiple LANs over long distances

MAN

covers a campus, city, or region

PAN

connects devices within a few meters

VPN

encrypts traffic between your device and a remote server

IP address

logicsl address used to idenitfy devices on a network

MAC address

hardware address unique to each device