Here are 10 Computer Network Devices and Their Definitions and Functions:
1. Server Computer
A server is a computer that contains an operating system, application programs, and a database. This computer is in charge of providing services to client computers in a network. On the server computer, there is a database that can be shared by the client computer. In general, the difference between a server and other computers lies in the software, the server is often the host to control the hardware that will be shared on the workstation.
2. Clients
Client is a computer that is used to process databases that are taken from the server computer. This computer acts as a user of network services whose performance is limited by the server computer.
3. LAN Card
LAN Card is a network card in the form of an electronic board installed on every computer connected to a network, both server and client. In this modern era, there are many types of network cards circulating in the markets. Some things to know about network cards are the type of card, the type of protocol, and the type of cable as support.
4. Hub
Hub is a device whose job is to connect the server computer to several other computers so as to form a network (Star topology). Apart from being a connection center, the Hub functions as a signal amplifier. Computers connected to the Hub will exchange data alternately. Hubs are used to connect multiple devices on the same computer network. For example: Hub is used to unite the cables from several clients that will be connected to the server. Usually Hub has port holes for RJ-45 connectors as many as 4 pieces, 8 pieces, 16 pieces and depending on the type
5. Cables and connectors
Cables and connectors serve to connect one computer to another computer in a network. In a computer network, the cable serves as a signal transmission medium. There are several types of cables that can be used, each cable has different capabilities and specifications. The cables must be installed in the appropriate connectors in order to be connected to the ethernet card. For example: cables and their connectors are Coaxial with BNC connectors and UTP cables with RJ-45 connectors.
6. Repeaters
Repeater is almost similar to Hub. This device is a simple tool that serves to repair and amplify the signal that passes through it. The cable used by this device is a long cable. The way a repeater works is that it receives a signal from the previous cable and retransmits it to the next cable with full signal strength as before.
7. Bridge
Bridge serves to connect several separate networks, either the same or different. For example, connecting different network media on UTP cable and fiberoptic cable. In addition, the bridge can expand the LAN network so that all parts can be connected to each other and become a larger network. Bridge distinguishes one network unit from other network units so that data processing is well organized.
8. Router
The router functions as a filter or data traffic filter. This filtering is done using a certain protocol. The router is also used as a liaison between several networks that have different IDs. Besides that, it is also easy to configure, the router also has the ability to choose a better alternative path. If one of the roads to the destination is interrupted for some reason, the router is able to continue by choosing another path.
9. Gateway
Gateway serves to connect a computer network with one or more other networks that use different communication protocols. With the help of this device information from one computer network can be provided to other computer networks with different protocols. Another term is to bridge two incompatible networks so that data can be transferred between different computers. One use of the gateway is for e-mail, the exchange of messages on different systems.
10. Modem
Modem stands for Modulator Demodulator. The modulator is the part whose job is to convert the digital information signal into a carrier signal and then send it. Meanwhile, the demodulator is the part that separates the information signal from the carrier signal so that it can be received properly. Simply put, a modem is a tool to convert a computer’s digital signal into an analog signal and vice versa. Through a computer modem can connect to the internet with a telephone line. Based on its function, modems are divided into three types, namely dial-up, cable, and ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) modems.
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