CCNA 200-301 – Network Devices (Day 01)

Vocabulary flashcards covering common network devices likely discussed on Day 01 of CCNA 200-301 preparation.

Router

Layer-3 device that forwards packets between networks based on IP addressing and maintains routing tables.

Switch

Layer-2 (and optionally Layer-3) device that forwards frames within a LAN using MAC addresses and builds a MAC address table.

Hub

Layer-1 multiport repeater that broadcasts incoming signals out all other ports; no traffic separation; half-duplex only.

Bridge

Legacy Layer-2 device that segments collision domains and forwards frames based on MAC addresses; essentially a two-port switch.

Wireless Access Point (AP)

Layer-2 device that connects wireless clients to a wired LAN, operating as a bridge between 802.11 and 802.3 networks.

Wireless LAN Controller (WLC)

Centralized appliance that manages multiple APs, providing configuration, security, and roaming services.

Firewall

Security device that filters traffic based on defined policies, inspecting Layers 3–7 to permit or deny packets.

Intrusion Detection/Prevention System (IDS/IPS)

Monitors network traffic for malicious activity; IDS alerts, while IPS can actively block or drop packets.

Modem

Modulator-demodulator that converts digital data to analog signals and vice versa for transmission over telephone or cable lines.

CSU/DSU

Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit; digital-interface device that connects a router to a leased-line circuit (T1/E1).

Load Balancer

Device or software that distributes incoming network traffic across multiple servers to optimize resource use and redundancy.

Proxy Server

Intermediate server that makes requests on behalf of clients, providing caching, filtering, and anonymity.

Repeater

Layer-1 device that regenerates and amplifies signals to extend the distance of a network segment.

Voice Gateway

Device that converts voice traffic between VoIP and traditional telephony (PSTN), enabling unified communications.