Network Devices
| Device | Job |
|---|---|
| NIC | Network Interface Card. Connects a computer to a network. Has a unique MAC address. |
| Modem | Modulator-Demodulator. Converts digital signals to analog and back, for telephone and cable lines. |
| Hub | Sends data to all ports. Dumb, works at the Physical layer. |
| Switch | Sends data only to the intended device, using MAC addresses. Works at the Data Link layer. |
| Bridge | Connects two LANs. |
| Router | Connects different networks and picks the best path using IP addresses. Works at the Network layer. |
| Gateway | Connects networks that use different protocols. The "entry and exit door". |
| Repeater | Regenerates a weak signal over a long distance. |
| Access Point (AP) | Lets wireless devices join a wired network. |
| Firewall | Filters traffic to protect the network. |
Keep practising
Notes are only half the work. Test yourself with questions and discuss doubts with other aspirants.
Prepared for exam revision from standard computer textbooks, Microsoft documentation and official sources. Features differ between Excel and Word versions (2016, 2019, 2021, 365) so check which version your exam follows. Found a mistake? Tell us.