Breaking Down an IT Network

In part one of the three-part series on computer IT networks we looked at the different types of network setups that are available. The type of network is dependent on the need of the user(s), whether it is private or public and how many users are on the network. In part two, we look at how computer networks work by defining network components, connection types and explaining what ie ethernet.

Network Components

• Network Interface Cards (NIC)

This is a circuit board or card installed in a computer. This connects the computer to a network. It provides the computer with a dedicated, full-time connection to a network.

• Hubs

A hub (also called an Ethernet hub, active hub, network hub, repeater hub, multiport repeater) is a network hardware device. It connects multiple Ethernet devices together so they act as a single network segment

• Bridges

A network bridge creates a single combined network from multiple communication networks.

• Repeaters

A repeater is an electronic device that receives a signal and retransmits it over longer distances or is received on the other side of an obstruction.

• Switches

A switch (also called network switch, switching hub, bridging hub) connects devices together on a computer network. It uses packet switching to receive, process, and forward data to the destination device.

Connection Types

• Wired Network

Firstly, a wired network uses cables ((twisted pair wires, coaxial cables, and fibre optic cables)to connect devices and other network components together.

• Wireless Network

Secondly, the wireless computer network uses wireless technologies. For example, satellite communication, wireless LAN and bluetooth

Ethernet 

Finally, ethernet is an array of networking technologies and systems used in local area networks (LAN). This is where computers are connected within a primary physical space. Systems using Ethernet communication divide data streams into packets. These include source and destination address information, as well as mechanisms used to detect errors in transmitted data and retransmission requests.

The structure of any contemporary business depends on suitable network architecture and infrastructure management. Many of the core elements of your IT infrastructure are heavily reliant on the investment put into the network architecture design. Therefore, as is clear, a network comprises of many IT components; for example, LAN, WAN and MPLS. However, Global ITN makes it simple for your business to get the network architecture it needs and ensures flexibility, redundancy and ease of operation for all users. At the same time, we provide end-to-end service from network architecture to implementation.

Next week, check out the next blog in part three of the series on IT computer networking where we consider the importance of building a quality network with the best support available.