CertiGuide to Network+  9  Chapter 0011:  Network Hardware

Chapter 0011:  Network Hardware 1 II  Introduction

We’ve already investigated the kinds of cable you’re likely to find connecting the devices in a network environment. In this chapter, we will survey the types of network devices that can take part in a LAN, describing the functionality of each type, and explaining where it fits in the OSI 7-layer model.

It may be useful for you to group items by OSI layer, as we’ve done here, when learning their features and functionality for the Network+ exam. Knowing which layer a device fits into can provide clues as to its functionality and even a starting point for troubleshooting a network issue.

• Know where a repeater, hub, gateway, switch, NIC, router, bridge and router operate in the OSI model
  
  
• Know how to connect a NIC to a host
  
  
• Know the advantages of a switch over a hub
  
  
• Know when to use a repeater or a media filter
  
  
• Know what a MAC address is
  
  
• Differentiate between a bridge and a router
  
  
• Describe router functions
  
  
• Routable vs. non-routable protocols

Bridge
Brouter
Gateway (proxy, e-mail, SNA)
Hub
Media Filter
MAU (Multistation Access Unit)
NIC (Network Interface Card)
Plug ‘n Play
Proxy
Repeater
Router
Smart Hub
Switch
Transceiver
Wireless Access Point

Chapter 0011:  Network Hardware 1 II  Introduction