Discuss various Network devices.

The various network devices are as follows :

1. Modem — Modem stands for Modulator Demodulator. It is a computer peripheral device that allows us to connect and communicate with other computers via telephone lines. Modems come in two varieties :

   1. Internal modems — They are fixed within the computer.
   2. External modems — They are connected externally to a computer as other peripherals are connected.

2. RJ-45 — RJ-45 refers to Registered Jack-45. It is an eight-wire connector, which is commonly used to connect computers on the local area networks (LANs), especially Ethernets.

3. NIC (Network Interface Card) — The network interface card is a device that is attached to each of the workstations and the server, and helps the workstation establish all the important connections with the network. Each NIC that is attached to a workstation has a unique number identifying it, which is known as the node address. The NIC manufacturer assigns a unique physical address (48 bits) to each NIC card, which is known as MAC address.

4. Ethernet Card — Ethernet Card is a type of Network Interface card, which is specific to Ethernet technology. An Ethernet card contains connections for either coaxial or twisted pair cables or both.

5. Hub — A hub is a networking device having multiple ports that are used for connecting multiple computers or segments of a LAN together.

6. Switch — A switch is a device that is used to segment networks into different sub-networks, called subnets or LAN segments. A switch is responsible for filtering i.e., transforming data in a specific way and for forwarding packets between LAN segments.

7. Repeater — A repeater is a network device that amplifies and restores signals for long-distance transmission.

8. Bridge — A bridge is a device that links two networks together. Bridges are smart enough to know which computers are on which side of the bridge, so they only allow those messages that need to get to the other side to cross the bridge. Bridges can handle networks that follow same protocols.

9. Router — A router is a network device that forwards data from one network to another. A router works like a bridge but can handle different protocols.

10. Gateway — A gateway is a network device that connects dissimilar networks. It establishes an intelligent connection between a local network and external networks with completely different structures.

11. WiFi Card — A WiFi card is either an internal or external Local Area Network adapter with a built-in wireless radio and antenna.