Section 1. Building a Simple Network

Exploring the Functions of Networking

A network is a collection of devices and end systems.

Networks consist of computers, servers, and network devices, such as switches and routers, that can communicate with each other.

Common Physical Components of a Network

Figure 1-1 shows the four major categories of physical components on a network:

Personal computers (PCs): Send and receive data and are the endpoints of the network.

Interconnections: Are the components that provide a means for data to travel across the network. This includes network interface cards (NIC), network media, and connectors.

Switches: Provide network access for the PCs.

Routers: Interconnect networks.

Figure 1-1. Network Components ...

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