2.1 Networks including the Internet

Describe the hardware that is used to support a LAN

A Local Area Network (LAN) connects devices within a limited geographical area, such as a home, school, or office. Several pieces of hardware work together to enable this connectivity. This section details the key hardware components commonly found in a LAN.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A Network Interface Card (NIC), also known as a network adapter, is a hardware component that allows a device to connect to a network. It acts as an intermediary between the device's operating system and the network cable or wireless signal.

• Function: Translates data between the device's format and the network's format.
• Types: Can be internal (built into the motherboard) or external (USB devices).
• MAC Address: Each NIC has a unique Media Access Control (MAC) address, which is used to identify the device on the network.

Network Cables

Network cables are used to physically connect devices in a LAN. Different types of cables are available, each with varying speeds and capabilities.

Cable Type	Speed	Typical Use
Twisted Pair (Ethernet)	10 Mbps - 100 Gbps	Most common type for connecting devices to a switch or router.
Fiber Optic	1 Gbps - 100 Gbps+	Used for long distances and high bandwidth applications.

Hub

A hub is a simple networking device that connects multiple devices in a LAN. When a device sends data to the hub, the hub broadcasts the data to all connected devices.

Drawback: This broadcasting can lead to network congestion and security risks.

Switch

A switch is a more intelligent networking device than a hub. It learns the MAC addresses of devices connected to it and forwards data only to the intended recipient.

Benefit: Reduces network congestion and improves security compared to a hub.

Router

A router connects a LAN to other networks, such as the internet. It directs data packets between these networks.

Function: Assigns IP addresses to devices on the LAN and manages network traffic.

Wireless Access Point (WAP)

A Wireless Access Point (WAP) allows devices to connect to the LAN wirelessly using Wi-Fi technology.

Function: Receives data from wireless devices and forwards it to the wired network. It also allows wireless devices to communicate with each other.

Modem

A modem (Modulator-Demodulator) is used to connect a LAN to the internet via a telephone line or cable.

Function: Converts digital signals from the LAN into analog signals for transmission over the telephone line or cable, and vice versa.