Computer Network Practical

1. Familiarization with networking components and devices: LAN

Adapters, Hubs, Switches, Routers etc.
Lan Adapters
A LAN adapter (also called a Network Interface Card – NIC) is a hardware device that allows
a computer or other device to connect to a Local Area Network (LAN). It works at the Data
Link Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and provides each device with a unique MAC address
for identification on the network. LAN adapters can be of different types such as Ethernet
(wired), Wireless (Wi-Fi), or USB-based. Their main functions include converting computer
data into signals for transmission, handling framing, error checking, and enabling
communication between devices in a LAN. They support different data transfer speeds like
10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps or higher, and are essential for file sharing, printing, and
internet access in both wired and wireless networks.
Hubs
A Hub is a simple networking device used to connect multiple computers or devices in a
Local Area Network (LAN). It works at the Physical Layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model and acts
as a central point where all network cables come together. When a hub receives data from
one device, it broadcasts the same data to all other connected devices, without checking
who the actual recipient is. Because of this, hubs are less secure and less efficient compared
to switches, as they cause more network traffic and collisions. There are two main types:
Active hubs (which regenerate and strengthen the signal before sending) and Passive hubs
(which only forward the signal without boosting it). Hubs are cheap and easy to use but are
rarely used today, as switches have largely replaced them due to better speed and efficiency.
Switches
A Switch is a networking device used to connect multiple computers or devices in a Local
Area Network (LAN), but unlike a hub, it is more intelligent. Switches work at the Data Link
Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model (some advanced switches also work at Layer 3). When data
arrives at a switch, it reads the MAC address of the destination device and forwards the data
only to that specific device, instead of broadcasting it to all devices like a hub. This reduces
network congestion, improves security, and increases efficiency. Switches can be
unmanaged (simple, plug-and-play for small networks) or managed (allowing configuration,
monitoring, and advanced features). They also support different speeds such as Fast
Ethernet (100 Mbps), Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps), and 10 Gbps or higher. Because of their
efficiency, switches are more widely used than hubs in modern LANs.
Routers
A Router is a networking device that connects different networks together and directs data
from one network to another, usually between a Local Area Network (LAN) and the Internet.
Unlike hubs and switches that mainly work within a single LAN, a router operates at the
Network Layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. It uses IP addresses to determine the best path
for data packets to travel and forwards them accordingly. Routers can connect LANs, MANs,
and WANs, and they also provide important features like Network Address Translation
(NAT), firewall security, and often Wi-Fi connectivity in home or office networks. They can
be wired (using Ethernet cables) or wireless (Wi-Fi routers). In short, while switches connect
devices within the same network, routers connect different networks and enable
communication across them, especially providing access to the Internet.

2. Familiarization with transmission media and tools: Coaxial cable, UTP

cable, Crimping tool, Connectors etc.
Coaxial cable
A Coaxial Cable (commonly called coax) is a type of electrical transmission medium used to
carry data, voice, and video signals. It consists of a central copper conductor surrounded by
an insulating layer, a metallic shield (braid or foil) that reduces interference, and an outer
insulating jacket for protection. Because of this layered structure, coaxial cables provide
better shielding against noise and electromagnetic interference compared to twisted pair
cables. They were widely used in early Ethernet LANs (10Base2, 10Base5), cable television
(CATV), and broadband internet connections. Coaxial cables support higher bandwidth than
simple copper wires but are bulkier and more expensive than twisted pair cables, and today
they are mostly replaced by UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) and fiber optic cables in modern
LANs.
UTP cable
A UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) Cable is the most commonly used networking cable in
LANs. It consists of pairs of copper wires twisted together, which helps reduce
electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. Unlike STP (Shielded Twisted Pair), it does not
have an extra metallic shield, making it cheaper, lighter, and easier to install. UTP cables are
mainly used with Ethernet networks (RJ-45 connectors) and support data transmission
speeds from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps, depending on the category (Cat3, Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6,
Cat6a, Cat7, Cat8). They are widely used for computer networking, telephone lines, and DSL
connections because of their low cost and flexibility, though they have a shorter range and
are less resistant to interference compared to coaxial and fibre optic cables.
Crimping tool
A Crimping Tool is a hand tool used to attach connectors (like RJ-45 for Ethernet cables or
RJ-11 for telephone cables) to the ends of networking cables such as UTP or STP. It works by
pressing (crimping) the metal pins of the connector into the cable wires so that a secure
electrical connection is made. A crimping tool usually has three main functions: cutting the
cable, stripping the outer insulation, and crimping the connector onto the wires. In
networking labs, it is commonly used to prepare straight-through and cross-over cables.
Proper crimping ensures good signal transmission and prevents loose connections, making
the crimping tool an essential device for network installation and maintenance.
Connectors
A Connector in networking is a small device attached to the end of a cable that allows it to
be plugged into a computer, switch, router, or other networking device to establish a
physical connection. Connectors ensure proper signal transmission between the cable and
the device. Different transmission media use different types of connectors:
 RJ-45 Connector → Used with UTP/STP cables in Ethernet LANs (most common, 8
pins).
 RJ-11 Connector → Used with telephone lines and DSL connections (smaller, 4 or 6
pins).
 BNC Connector → Used with coaxial cables, especially in older LANs and cable TV
systems.
 SC, ST, LC Connectors → Used with fibre optic cables for high-speed data
transmission.
In practice, connectors are attached to cables using tools like a crimping tool (for RJ-45, RJ-
11) or special couplers/adapters (for fibre). Choosing the right connector is important for
compatibility, signal quality, and network performance.