Networking Devices

What are networking devices? Functions and 10 basic types of networking devices

Nowadays, networking devices are no longer something unfamiliar in our lives. They help users access the vast data resources on the internet, search and explore social networks. However, many people still do not clearly understand networking devices.

So what about you, do you already understand what networking devices are? Let’s join BPO.MP to explore what networking devices are and the functions of networking devices in the article below!

1. What are networking devices?

Networking devices are types of equipment used to connect one or multiple LAN networks (local area networks) into a basic computer network system. They can connect multiple end devices such as computers together depending on the number of port connections on the device used in the network.

The main networking devices commonly used today include: Repeater, Hub, Bridge, Switch, Router, Firewall, and Gateway.

2. What are the functions and roles of networking devices?

Networking devices help maintain stable internet connectivity between end devices, without signal interference or interruption. The transmission range of the network is very wide, allowing connection anytime. In addition, when installing networking devices, we can manage the number of users accessing the internet, and the networking device itself can flexibly connect with many different devices, serving users’ needs.

Networking devices play an essential and irreplaceable role when installing a LAN network for an office, company, building, school, agency, or organization. Thanks to networking devices, end devices such as computers, printers, phones, laptops, PCs, etc., can connect to the internet and exchange information with each other. Learn more about end devices here.

3. Basic types of networking devices

To allow data streams to be transmitted back and forth, we need special linking devices, also known as networking devices. Some basic networking devices that we may encounter in daily life include: router, hub, switch, access point…

You can make connections by selecting suitable devices for connection types such as: repeater, bridge, router, or gateway. The task of these devices is to operate according to the OSI model.

3.1. Network card

A network card (network card), or Network Interface Card, is a type of circuit board that allows computers to communicate with each other over the internet. Thanks to the connection ports on the mainboard of desktop computers, computers can connect to each other via the network environment. This connection is called a LAN adapter.

Functions of the network card include:

Transmitting data back and forth between computers, while controlling and tracking the data information sent to the computer (meaning: when you want to upload data to the internet or search for information, the data will be converted from bytes and bits into electrical signals. These signals will go through cables and be transmitted to your computer.)

Each network card will have a MAC address. This address is unique and cannot be duplicated (the address includes 6 bytes (48 bits), in which the first 3 bytes are the manufacturer’s code, and the last 3 bytes are the serial number of the network card assigned by the manufacturer). Therefore, they can distinguish and transmit data over the internet most accurately.

Network card (network card)

A network card is a circuit board that enables computers to communicate with each other over the internet

3.2. Modem

A modem (a combined term of Modulator and Demodulator) is a device that modulates analog signal waves to encode digital data and demodulates network signals to decode digital signals.

Simply put: the modem converts digital data from network-connected devices such as TVs, phones, computers, etc., into analog signals to transmit through cables. Conversely, the modem converts analog signals into digital data that computers can understand.

The modem acts as a bridge to communicate with the networks of the Internet Service Provider (ISP). It functions to convert data packets from the ISP into internet connections for routers or other network linking devices via the IP address.

Modem

A modem acts as a bridge to communicate with the networks of the internet service provider

3.3. Router

A router is a networking device that forwards data between computer networks. Simply put: the router manages data routing on the internet, where data is sent in packets from one router to another through interconnected networks. Packets are transmitted through routers until they reach the destination. The router is a networking device belonging to Layer 3 of the OSI model (Network Layer).

A router usually consists of:

WAN port: All routers have this port; it provides a separate network layer and default IP range for devices (this port is usually blue or yellow for easy identification).

LAN ports: Each router is equipped with at least 2 LAN ports. This is the port that users can connect directly from the router to PCs, TVs, laptops, etc., via Ethernet cable. Depending on the type of router, the maximum data transmission speed of the LAN port will vary.

Antenna: A Wi-Fi router will have two types of antennas: internal and external. The more antennas it has, the stronger the Wi-Fi transmission capability.

A router is a networking device that forwards data between computer networks.

3.4. Repeater

A repeater is a device that amplifies transmission signals, and in the OSI model, it belongs to Layer 1. Repeaters are commonly used in large buildings, offices, etc. They help extend the signal range, and the data access speed will not decrease even when devices are far apart.

Currently, there are two types of repeaters: Wi-Fi Repeater and LAN Repeater. Wi-Fi Repeater is more common, so the term repeater often implies Wi-Fi repeater.

Operation principle: when the repeater receives the incoming signal, it sends it to the signal amplifier, then outputs the amplified signal.

A repeater is a device that amplifies transmission signals.

3.5. Hub

A hub (also known as a network splitter) is considered the central connection point of devices in a network system. Hubs are used to connect LAN networks because they have multiple connection ports. Typically, each hub has 4 – 24 ports, making connection easier.

Active Hub is commonly used; it amplifies signals and splits them into multiple ports to connect more devices.

Smart Hub functions similarly to Active Hub, but it can automatically detect errors in the network system.

A hub is considered the central connection point of devices in a network system.

3.6. Switch

A switch is an important device in the network system; it connects network segments together in a star topology. The switch acts as a central point, where other devices such as computers and printers are connected, creating an intermediate data path. In addition, switches are integrated with Full Duplex technology to expand bandwidth, which other devices cannot do.

A switch is sometimes compared to a multi-port bridge.

Switches operate mainly at Layer 2 (data link layer) of the OSI model. They can limit the amount of data being sent at a certain threshold. Each switch has different speeds such as 10Mbps, 100Mbps, 1Gbps, or 10Gbps.

A switch is an important networking device used to connect network segments.

3.7. Gateway

Gateway is a telecommunications term. It is a network node used to connect networks with different protocols into a single network. The gateway processes all input/output data of the network before routing, as all data must pass through the gateway.

The main function of the gateway is protocol conversion; this is often done by specialized software. Therefore, you do not necessarily need special hardware to act as a gateway. A PC with suitable software can be used as a gateway. However, there are also products specifically designed to perform gateway functions.

A gateway is a network node used to connect networks with different protocols into one.

3.8. Bridge

A bridge is used as a connector to link two networks into one large network. The bridge’s task is to control data transmission. When a data packet is sent from one computer to another, the bridge encapsulates and sends the data to the destination network.

Bridges connect using protocols, similar to how network components are linked. It operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model, enabling networks to connect and communicate. The bridge transmits data using MAC address tables, ensuring data reaches the correct destination via MAC address.

3.9. Access Point (AP)

An Access Point is a device that creates a wireless local network or WLAN. It is commonly used in buildings or large offices. A wireless Access Point acts as a receiving/transmitting station. An Access Point may also be referred to as a Wi-Fi transmitter or Wi-Fi transceiver. Learn more about what an Access Point is here.

Its structure is similar to a switch, allowing conversion from wired to wireless networks and broadcasting Wi-Fi to other devices.

Access Points allow wireless devices to connect to wired local networks, but they cannot assign IP addresses like a modem.

3.10. Firewall

A firewall is a network security system; it operates based on hardware or software integrated into the device using rules to control network traffic entering/exiting the system. The firewall acts as a barrier to prevent external cyberattacks on the home network system.

Firewalls prevent unauthorized access from outside to the network, not allowing external access unless permitted.

A firewall is a network security system that operates based on hardware or integrated software.

Criteria and experience in choosing the right networking device

Currently, the market offers many different networking devices, and each type suits specific user purposes. Below are some suggestions from BPO.MP when choosing networking devices:

4.1. Usage needs

The first criterion when choosing networking devices is to clearly identify your usage needs. The reason is that the market offers many types of networking devices from different brands, serving different user purposes.

4.2. Learn about network frequency bands

A frequency band is a range of electromagnetic frequencies used to transmit wireless signals among devices. Currently, two frequency bands are commonly used: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Dual-band Wi-Fi supports both frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Dual-band Wi-Fi includes many Wi-Fi-connected devices such as modems, routers, PCs/laptops, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, wireless network cards…

Therefore, when choosing networking devices, you need to check the supported frequency bands. The main difference between the two frequency bands is speed/bandwidth and coverage range.

Speed: Under ideal conditions, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi supports speeds from 450Mbps to 600Mbps. 5GHz Wi-Fi supports speeds up to 1300Mbps. Using 5GHz allows faster internet access.

Coverage range: Higher frequency results in higher signal attenuation. Because 5GHz Wi-Fi operates at a higher frequency, its coverage range is smaller than 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.

Understanding network frequency bands helps you understand interference resistance, congestion when many devices connect at once, etc., allowing you to choose networking devices that best suit your needs.

4.3. Network speed

Network speed is also an important factor, helping you work, stream movies, or play games smoothly without lag.

Below is a reference table of network speeds to help you determine what is suitable before choosing networking devices.

4.4. Choosing by brand and manufacturer

Currently, on the market there are many manufacturers and suppliers of network devices ranging from consumer-grade products to specialized products for businesses. There are diverse design styles, models, and functions, giving users more choices.

Depending on your usage purpose and budget, you can choose network devices from world-renowned brands such as: Linksys, Tenda, Asus, Xiaomi,… to specialized network devices: UniFi, MikroTik, Ruckus, Cisco,…

4.5. Other features of network devices

In addition to the criteria above, you should also consider other features such as:

• Fast connection speed

• Good security

• Design and appearance

Conclusion

The above are the shared experiences to help you clearly understand what network devices are, as well as the basic types of network devices, and tips for choosing genuine, high-quality network devices at a suitable price. Network devices play an important role in ensuring stable system operation, fast access, and meeting users’ working and entertainment needs.