Scribd
Upload
5 views

Network Report 2

Uploaded by

Mohamed Nabil
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
5 views

Network Report 2

Uploaded by

Mohamed Nabil
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 5

Network Report

Understanding Network Devices and Topologies

‫ سارة أحمد رجب عبد‬:‫االسم‬


‫العزيز‬
‫ هندسة البرمجيات‬:‫القسم‬
200 :‫المستوي‬
Report: Understanding Network Devices and Topologies
Table of Contents:
1. Difference Between Router, Switch, Gateway, and Bridge
2. Different Network Topologies
3. Types of Cables, Wires, and Media

1. Difference Between Router, Switch, Gateway, and Bridge


Router
A router is a device that connects two or more different networks. It determines the best path for
data to travel from the source to the destination and ensures that information is sent efficiently
across different networks. Routers operate at Layer 3 (Network layer) of the OSI model, meaning
they handle IP addresses and route data between devices on different subnets or networks.
Key Features:
 Directs traffic between networks.
 Works with IP addresses.
 Often includes firewall functionality.
Switch
A switch is a device used to connect devices within the same network. It operates at Layer 2 (Data
Link layer) of the OSI model. A switch uses MAC addresses to forward data to the correct device,
ensuring data is only sent to the device it’s intended for rather than all devices on the network.
Key Features:
 Connects devices within the same network.
 Works with MAC addresses.
 Efficient data transfer within local networks.
Gateway
A gateway is a node that serves as an entry and exit point to another network. Unlike a router, a
gateway can operate at multiple OSI layers (including Layers 5, 6, and 7), translating protocols,
data formats, and even different network types (e.g., from an IP network to a non-IP network). It's
essential for networks that need to communicate using different protocols.
Key Features:
 Acts as a translator between networks.
 Can function on different OSI layers.
 Often used to connect a company network to the internet.

Bridge
A bridge is a device that connects two separate segments of a network, making them act as one
larger network. Operating at Layer 2 (Data Link layer), it helps reduce network traffic by dividing it
into more manageable sections and filters data based on MAC addresses.

Key Features:
 Connects and filters network segments.
 Works at the Data Link layer.
 Reduces network congestion by isolating traffic.

2. Different Network Topologies


Bus Topology
In bus topology, all devices are connected to a single communication line (bus). Data is sent from
one device and travels along the bus to reach the destination. It's simple to install but not very
fault-tolerant—if the main cable fails, the entire network goes down.
Advantages:
 Simple and cost-effective for small networks.
 Easy to install.
Disadvantages:
 Network failure if the main cable breaks.
 Difficult to troubleshoot.
Star Topology
In star topology, all devices are connected to a central device, usually a switch or hub. Data
passes through the central device before reaching the destination. It’s one of the most commonly
used topologies today due to its reliability.
Advantages:
 Easy to add or remove devices.
 Centralized management.
Disadvantages:
 If the central hub fails, the network is disrupted.

Ring Topology
In ring topology, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a circular data path.
Data travels in one direction around the ring. If one device or connection fails, the entire network
can be affected unless a dual ring topology is used.
Advantages:
 Efficient data transfer.
 Can be used in smaller networks.
Disadvantages:
 Network failure if one connection breaks.
 More difficult to troubleshoot than star topology.

Mesh Topology
In mesh topology, every device is connected to every other device. It provides high fault
tolerance since multiple paths exist for data to travel. This topology is often used in critical
applications like military communications.
Advantages:
 High reliability and fault tolerance.
 Multiple paths for data.
Disadvantages:
 Expensive and complex to install.
 Requires a lot of cables and ports.

3. Types of Cables, Wires, and Media


Twisted Pair Cable
Twisted pair cables are widely used in local area networks (LANs). The wires inside the cable are
twisted together to reduce interference from other wires and devices. There are two main types:
 Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): Common in office LANs and internet connections.
 Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): Provides better protection against interference, making it
more suitable for industrial environments.
Media:
 Used for Ethernet connections.
 Data transfer rates vary from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps depending on the category (e.g., Cat5e,
Cat6, etc.).
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cables are often used in cable television and older Ethernet networks. They consist of a
central conductor surrounded by insulation and shielding. Coaxial cables are more resistant to
interference and have higher data transmission capabilities compared to twisted pair cables.

Media:
 Supports broadband signals for TV and internet.
 Can transfer data up to 10 Mbps.
Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber optic cables use light to transmit data, making them extremely fast and reliable over long
distances. They’re commonly used for internet backbones and high-speed data networks.
Types:
 Single-mode fiber (SMF): Supports long-distance communication.
 Multi-mode fiber (MMF): Suitable for shorter distances but with higher data transfer rates.
Media:
 Transfers data at speeds up to 100 Gbps.
 Immune to electromagnetic interference.
Wireless Media
Wireless media, such as radio waves, microwaves, and infrared, allow for data transmission
without cables. Wireless networks use technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data to
connect devices. While convenient, wireless connections are more susceptible to interference and
security risks compared to wired connections.
Media:
 Supports mobile devices and laptops.
 Data transfer speeds depend on the wireless standard (e.g., Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6).

Conclusion
In this report, we explored the differences between essential networking devices (routers, switches,
gateways, and bridges), various network topologies, and different types of cables and media used
for data transmission. Understanding these components and how they work together is crucial for
setting up and maintaining efficient networks, whether for home, office, or larger enterprise
systems.

You might also like