3.4: Network Hardware & Routing
Exam Board:
Eduqas / WJEC
Specification:
2020 +
Network Devices
Hub
A hub receives data packets from a connected device and transfers a copy to all connected nodes.
Switch
A switch receives data packets, processes them and transfers them on to the device specifically listed in the destination address of the packet.
Router
Routers are used to transfer data packets between networks.
Data is sent from network to network on the internet towards the destination address listed in the data packet.
A router stores the address of each computer on the network and uses routing tables to calculate the quickest and shortest path.
Bridge
A bridge joins together two networks that use the same base protocols.
For example, a bridge could link together a LAN to another LAN.
Wireless Access Point (WAP)
Provides a link between wireless and wired networks. It creates a wireless local area network that allows WiFi enabled devices to connect to a wired network.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
A Network Interface Card (often shortened to NIC) is an internal piece of hardware that is required for the computer to connect to a network.
It used to be a separate expansion card but now it is commonly built directly into the motherboard (and sometimes known as a network adapter).
Wireless network interface cards (WNIC) permit a wireless network connection.
Routing
A routing table is a list of the optimal routes for data packets to be sent from one device to another.
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Routing tables should be kept accurate and up to date to ensure that packets are transferred as quickly as possible.
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During routing the lowest cost route is calculated. This is the shortest path with the fastest nodes to transfer data.
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Below is a simplified network and basic routing table showing the lowest cost (optimal) route using node A as the source address.
Questo's Questions
3.4 - Network Hardware & Routing:
1a. Describe the difference between a hub and a switch. [2]
1b. Explain how a modem works. [2]
1c. Describe the purpose of a router. [2]
1d. Describe the difference between a gateway and a bridge. [2]
1e. State what WAP stands for and describe its purpose. [2]
1f. State what NIC stands for and why it is required. [2]
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2a. Describe what a routing table is and why they should be maintained. [2]
2b. In terms of routing, what does a low-cost route mean? [2]
2c. Copy and complete the routing table below using node J as the source address. [4]
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