Understanding Basic Network Devices

Having a solid understanding and foundation of computer networking is essential for a successful career in cyber security, here are some terms you should be comfortable with!

1. Switches

A network switch connects devices within a network (often a local area network, or *LAN) and forwards data packet to and from this devices, Unlike a router, a switch only sends data to a single devices it is intended for (which may be another switch, a router, or a users’s computer), not to networks of multiple devices.

2. Routers

A router is a device that connects two or more networks or subnetworks. It serves two primary functions: managing traffic between these networks by forwarding data parkers ti their intended IP address, and allowing multiple denies to to use the same internet connection. For example, a router is used in home networking to forward data packets between home network and the internet. Popular router manufacturing companies include: Google, Asus, and Linksys.

3. Bridge

A bridge is a network device that connect multiple LANs (local area networks) together to form a larger LAN. The process of aggregating newts is called network bringing. A briefer connect the different competes so that they appear as parts of a single network.

4. Firewall

A firewall is a computer network of security devices that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic and permits or blocks data packets based on a set of security rules. Its purpose is to establish a barrier between your internal network and incoming traffic from external sources (such as the internet) in order to block malicious traffic like viruses and hackers.