EXPLORE: Network Media and Devices

A device necessary for sending and receiving data over analog lines, such as phone or cable lines.

Modem

A device that acts as a point of connection between two or more networks that forwards data packets between networks. To have internet in your home, you need an this device that connects the networks on the internet to the network of your home. \n You can access the internet’s network either through a wired Ethernet port of via Wi-Fi.

Router

This device is used to connect devices in a specific network and allows them to communicate efficiently within the network. It is a more complex version of a hub, in that they \n have the capability to add security measures and function far more intelligently, sending traffic directly from the sender to the receiver without the other devices being aware of the \n communication. \n Thus, this device is less chatty and allows for more simultaneous conversations between devices. Most internet routers include a this in the form of wired or wireless Ethernet connections.

Switch

This device is similar to a router in that it connects two or more networks. The difference is that the router analyzes data packets to determine where to send the packet next, whereas this device simply forwards the data to the next network without analysis. This make for fast data transfer that lacks versatility. These devices are not widely used in modern networks, as routers and switches are the favored devices.

Bridge

This is a device used to strengthen, replicate, and regenerate signals that are weakened (for example, because of distance) during transmission. In many large homes, the Wi-Fi signal \n does not extend to the end of the house farthest from the router. A range extender is a form of this device that takes the distorted Wi-Fi signal and transmits is to the formerly dead zone.

Repeater

This device connects the router to the network, takes the data packets from the router, and sends them to all of the devices connected on the network.

Hub

Operates at the Network and Data Link layers.

Switch (OSI)

Router (OSI)

Operates at the Network layer.

Operates at the Data Link and Physical layers.

Modem (OSI)

Operates at the Data Link layer.

Bridge (OSI)

Operates at the Physical layer.

Repeater (OSI)