- Network Interface Card (NIC) – A hardware component that enables a device to connect to a network. Example: Ethernet card.
- Hub – A simple networking device that allows multiple devices to share a network connection. Example: Ethernet hub.Switch – A more advanced networking device that connects multiple devices and directs network traffic efficiently. Example: Ethernet switch.
- Router – A networking device that forwards data packets between different networks. Example: Wi-Fi router.
- Modem – A networking device that modulates and demodulates data signals between a computer and a communication network. Example: DSL modem.
- Firewall – A security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. Example: Hardware firewall.
- Access Point – A device that enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network. Example: Wi-Fi access point.
- Repeater – A device that amplifies and retransmits network signals to extend their range. Example: Wi-Fi repeater.
- Bridge – A device that connects two or more network segments and forwards network traffic between them. Example: Ethernet bridge.
- Gateway – A device that acts as a bridge between two or more networks and translates between different communication protocols. Example: Internet gateway.
- Network Attached Storage (NAS) – A storage device that connects to a network and allows multiple devices to access and share files. Example: Western Digital My Cloud.
- Load Balancer – A device that distributes network traffic across multiple servers to improve performance and availability. Example: F5 Big-IP.
- Content Filter – A security device that blocks access to certain websites or types of content. Example: Barracuda Web Filter.
Understanding these networking devices and their functions is crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer networks.