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Knowledge organisers / Networks and topologies

The hardware needed to connect stand-alone computers into a Local Area Network: Wireless access points, Routers, Switches, NIC (Network Interface Controller/Card), Transmission media

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Knowledge organiser

Networks and topologies

1.3.1d

What you need to know

Several hardware components are needed to connect standalone computers into a Local Area Network, including wireless access points, routers, switches, NICs, and transmission media.

Key points

  • Definition:Wireless Access Point (WAP): uses radio transceivers to allow devices to connect wirelessly to a network.
  • Definition:Router: connects two or more DIFFERENT networks together. Allows a LAN to connect to the Internet.
  • Definition:Switch: connects devices within a network. Receives data packets and sends them ONLY to the correct destination device.
  • Definition:NIC (Network Interface Controller/Card): hardware inside a device that enables it to connect to a network. Converts data into signals (voltages for wired, radio waves for wireless).
  • Definition:Transmission Media: the physical or wireless methods used to carry data (e.g. Ethernet cables, fibre-optic cables, radio waves).
  • Exam Tip:Know the difference between a SWITCH (connects devices within a network using MAC addresses) and a ROUTER (connects different networks using IP addresses).
  • Common Mistake:Confusing a router with a switch. A router connects NETWORKS (e.g. your home LAN to the Internet). A switch connects DEVICES within a single network.
  • Common Mistake:Saying a switch performs the same role as a server. A switch DIRECTS data to devices — it does NOT store data or provide services.
  • Exam Tip:Three tasks of a router: (1) receives packets, (2) finds the most efficient path using a routing table, (3) forwards packets towards the destination IP.
  • A switch RECORDS the MAC addresses of connected devices in a table and uses these to direct data ONLY to the correct device (not to all devices — that's a hub).