Network devices

Choose the right device for a networking task.

Each network device has one job:

Modem (modulator-demodulator): converts a computer's digital data into analog signals that can travel over telephone or cable lines, and back again at the other end.
Ethernet card (Network Interface Card, NIC): connects a computer to a wired network. Each NIC has a unique MAC address, fixed by its maker.
Repeater: signals grow weak over long cables (after about 100 m); a repeater regenerates them.
Hub: connects several devices, and sends incoming data to all its ports. Data from two devices sent at the same time can collide.
Switch: like a hub, but smarter: it sends data only to the destination device.
Router: analyses data and sends it on to other networks; for example, it connects a home or office LAN to the Internet.
Gateway: the entry and exit point between an organisation's network and the outside world.

Each device, one job.

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