Networking ComponentsManuel Palos

HUBS

• Hubs are inexpensive devices that connect multiple devices t0 a network.

• Hubs merely pass along network data. The more computers that are on the network, the more frequently the data collides with each other. This will lead to your network being bogged down.

• A basic 4 – 5 Port hub can cost about $25 to $50.

SWITCHES

• Switches are devices that connect devices on a LAN.

• Switches look identical to hub, but are able to inspect the source and destination of a message. It sends the message only to destination.

• The cost of a switch varies widely. A basic switch can start at $30 while a high end switch can cost over $8000.

ROUTERS

• Routers join multiple networks together.

• In most home networks, they join your LAN to WAN.

• Some routers can be used as Wireless Access Point and Firewalls

• The cost of a router can range from $30 to $50000.

BRIDGES

• Bridges connect one LAN segment to another.

• Bridges are used reduce traffic on the LAN.

• The cost of bridges range from $349 to $629.

GATEWAYS

• Gateways are either hardware or software that allow networks to join that use different base protocols.

• On home networks, routers can be used as gateways.

• Gateway cost can range from $50 to $300.

FIREWALLS

• A network firewall protects an internal network from malicious attacks.

• Firewalls can be setup as hardware, software, or both.

• Home networks can have routers that have a built-in firewall

• The cost of a firewall can range from $300 to $10000.

WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS

• Wireless access points are small devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a network.

• Most WAPs support Wi-Fi and are installed in public places.

• The cost of a WAP can range from $50 to $500.

SAMPLE NETWORK