Network Infrastructure
Network infrastructure can be a mix of hardware devices, software applications, and network services.
Hardware Components
The hardware components encompass:
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Host: The end-user devices in a network, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, or servers. It's important to note that they can play different roles in a network. A host can act:
- As a client, which initiates requests for services.
- As a server, which provides services and responds to client requests.
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Router/Switch: Network devices responsible for facilitating the flow of data within a network.
- A switch is designed to connect devices within a computer network.
- A router is designed to connect across multiple computer networks.
In networking conventions, these devices are commonly referred to as hosts, and each host can support one or more applications, such as web browsers, email clients, or file sharing programs.
Figure 2.1 Hardware components.
To connect devices, routers, and switches use various physical mediums, including cables, optical fibers, and wireless networks.
Figure 2.2 Half-duplex and full-duplex.
They may operate in different duplex modes, as noted Figure 2.2, such as:
- Full duplex: Data can be sent and received simultaneously, improving communication efficiency.
- Half duplex: Data can only be sent or received at any given moment, potentially leading to slower communication and increased risk of collisions.
Wireless links broadcast messages to all nodes in their coverage area and operate in half-duplex mode, allowing either sending or receiving at any given moment but not both simultaneously on the same frequency.
Figure 2.3 Wireless links.
A host can detect the AP signal beyond its intended coverage area, but the signal strength is insufficient for proper reception, resulting in data that cannot be accurately interpreted due to its weakness.
Software Components