Chapter 3
Hardware
3.1 Computer Architecture
3.2 Input and Output Devices
3.3 Data Storage
3.4 Network Hardware
Prepared by: Irtekajul Islam JiShan
Chapter-3: Hardware
3.4 Network Hardware
The Components That Connect Computers
3.4 Network Hardware
Computer Network
A computer network is a system that connects multiple
computers and devices to share data and resources.
3.4 Network Hardware
Introduction to Network Hardware
What is Network Hardware?
The physical components that allow computers and other
devices to connect and communicate.
These devices create and manage the flow of data across a
network.
Key Components:
Network Interface Cards (NICs)
Routers
Switches
3.4 Network Hardware
Network Interface Cards (NICs
This is also known as network adapter
card, Ethernet Card and LAN card.
NIC allows a networking device to
communicate with the other networking
device. In modern computer systems, it
is an internal hardware component. It is
usually part of the device hardware and
contains the Media Access Control
(MAC) address generated at the
manufacturing stage.
3.4 Network Hardware
Routers
A router is a device that enables data packets to be moved
between different networks, for example, to join a LAN to a WAN.
Function: A router's main job is to route data packets between
your local network and the internet.
3.4 Network Hardware
How a Router Works
IP Address Handling
Assigns a private IP address to each device on a private network
(unique on that network).
Gets a unique public IP address when connecting to the internet.
Main Function
Routes data packets between networks (e.g., LAN to WAN).
Transmits internet and transmission protocols between two
networks.
3.4 Network Hardware
Switches
What is a Switch?
A device that connects multiple computers on the same local
network.
It directs data packets to a specific device based on its MAC
address.
3.4 Network Hardware
IP Addresses
What is an IP Address?
An Internet Protocol (IP) Address is a logical address assigned
to a device on a network.
It identifies a device so data can be routed to it across networks,
like the internet.
Types of IP Addresses
1. Dynamic IP Address
2. Static IP Address
3.4 Network Hardware
MAC Addresses
A Media Access Control (MAC) Address is a unique hardware
address assigned to a Network Interface Card (NIC).
It is a 48-bit address, typically written as six pairs of hexadecimal
digits (e.g., 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E).
Purpose: It identifies a specific device on a local network.
3.4 Network Hardware
Dynamic IP Address
Changes periodically, assigned by a network (e.g., via
DHCP)Common for home devices like laptops.
3.4 Network Hardware
Static IP Address
A permanent address that does not change. Used for devices
needing consistent identification (e.g., servers).
3.4 Network Hardware
Routers Flow
3.4 Network Hardware
Hubs
What is a Hub?
A very simple device that connects multiple computers on the
same network.
How it works: When a data packet arrives at a hub, it simply
broadcasts the data to all connected devices.
Limitations: This creates a lot of unnecessary network traffic,
making it less efficient and secure than a switch.
3.4 Network Hardware
Network Topologies
What is a Topology?
The physical or logical arrangement of devices on a network.
It describes how the computers, printers, and other devices
are connected.
Common Topologies:
• Star
• Bus
• Ring
3.4 Network Hardware
Common Topologies: Star and Bus
Star Topology:
All devices are connected to a central hub or
switch.
Pros: Easy to install, and if one cable fails,
the rest of the network is unaffected.
Bus Topology:
All devices are connected to a single central
cable.
Cons: If the main cable fails, the entire
network goes down.
3.4 Network Hardware
LAN vs. WAN
LAN (Local Area Network):
Connects devices in a small geographical area, such as a
home, office, or school.
Often uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
WAN (Wide Area Network):
Connects devices over a large geographical area, such as
cities, countries, or continents.
The internet is the most famous example of a WAN.
3.4 Network Hardware
Network Devices Summary
NIC: Connects a device to a network.
MAC Address: Unique ID for a device on a local network.
IP Address: Logical ID for routing data across networks.
Router: Connects different networks.
Switch: Connects devices on the same network.
Hub: Broadcasts data to all connected devices on a network.