Here's a list of basic networking components and devices that play a role in establishing and managing network connections. These implement the layers in the [[OSI Model]] ## Resources ### Network Interface Card (NIC): A hardware component that connects a computer or device to a network, enabling communication with other devices on the network. ### Hub: A simple networking device that connects multiple devices together, forwarding incoming data packets to all connected devices. Hubs operate at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. ### Switch: A networking device that connects multiple devices together and selectively forwards data packets based on their destination MAC addresses. Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and are more efficient than hubs. ### Router: A device that connects multiple networks and forwards data packets between them based on their IP addresses. Routers operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and enable communication between different networks, such as LANs and the internet. ### Bridge: A device that connects two or more network segments at the data link layer (Layer 2), allowing them to function as a single network. Bridges filter and forward data packets based on MAC addresses, similar to switches but with fewer advanced features. ### Repeater: A device that amplifies and regenerates network signals to extend the reach of a network segment. Repeaters operate at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. ### Wireless Access Point (WAP): A networking device that enables wireless devices to connect to a wired network. WAPs convert data between wired Ethernet and wireless Wi-Fi signals, allowing seamless communication between wired and wireless devices. ### Modem: A device that modulates and demodulates signals, enabling communication between digital devices (like computers) and analog networks (like telephone lines). Modems are commonly used for connecting to the internet via DSL or cable connections. ### Firewall: A security device or software that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, filtering and blocking data packets based on predefined security rules. Firewalls help protect networks from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. ### Network cables: Physical cables, such as Ethernet (e.g., Cat5e, Cat6) or fiber optic cables, used to connect network devices and transmit data between them. ### Network protocols: Sets of rules and conventions that dictate how data is transmitted and processed within a network. Examples include TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, and SMTP. ## Organization and patterns These components, along with various [[Network Topologies]] and configurations, form the basis of modern networking infrastructure. Understanding the role and function of each component is essential for designing, managing, and troubleshooting networks.