Network Devices in Computer Networks and Its Types

Have you ever wondered how a network is built and how data flows from one system to another? Building a network is impossible without the physical and virtual devices that comprise the network infrastructure. Network Devices, such as Hubs, Routers, Switches, Repeater, etc.,  are the answer to all of these questions.

So, what exactly are network devices, and what are their different types? Before we answer these questions, let’s go over the topics we’ll be covering in this blog:

• What are the network devices?
• Network devices types
  • Hub
  • Switch
  • Router
  • Bridge
  • Gateway
  • Modem
  • Repeater
  • Access Point
• Conclusion

What are Network Devices? 

Network devices are physical devices that allow hardware on a computer network to interact and communicate with one another. In layman’s terms, we can describe network devices in computer networks as the devices that connect fax machines, computers, printers, and other electronic devices to the network. You can quickly, safely, and accurately transfer data over one or more networks with the help of network devices. Network devices are also referred to as hardware and networking hardware. 

Network Devices Types

So, now that we have a clear understanding of what network devices in computer networks are let’s move on to their types. As a network can be of various types, such as Local Area Network (LAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), and Wide Area Network (WAN); hence there are a lot of different network devices in computer networks. But, in this article, we will be going over some of the most common and popular types of network devices in computer networks, as shown in the image below:

Hub

A hub is one of the simplest networking devices that connects several computers or other network devices when referring to networking (network devices hub). In layman’s terms, a hub is a hardware device that allows multiple devices or connections to connect to a computer. 

A USB hub, for example, allows multiple USB devices to connect with one computer, even if that computer only has one USB connection. Depending on the hub, the number of ports on a USB hub can range from 4 to over 100, and it operates at the Physical layer (Layer 1) of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Unaware of the OSI Model? Don't worry. Read the OSI Model Explained: 7 Layers and Their Functions article, as it will help you understand the workings and functions of networking devices in a better way. 

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using a hub as a network device.

While hubs are cost-effective and simple, they lack advanced features like traffic control and data filtering. Want to learn more about the Hub? If yes, read the What is Hub in Computer Networks article. 

Switch

A switch is a physical circuitry part that controls the flow of signals in networking (network devices switch). A switch enables you to open or close a connection. When the switch is opened, a signal or power can pass through the connection. When the switch is closed, the flow is stopped, and the circuit connection is broken. Early computers, such as the Altair, used switches as input. A network switch is much more advanced than a hub, but it isn’t as advanced as a router and operates at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model.

The table below summarizes the key advantages and disadvantages of using a switch as a network device.

Switches enhance network performance and efficiency but come with higher costs and troubleshooting challenges. Want to learn more about the Switch? If yes, read theWhat Is A Network Switch And Its Typesarticle. 

Router

In regards to networking (network devices router), a router is a piece of hardware that receives, analyses, and forwards incoming packets to another network. Routers examine incoming packets to determine the correct target IP address and send the packet to that address.

Routers typically connect LANs and WANs and use a rapidly updating routing table to make routing decisions for data packets. Edge routers, core routers, virtual routers, wireless routers, and various other types of routers are available, and they operate at the Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model.

Bridge

In regards to networking, a bridge is a device that connects two LANs or two segments of the same LAN. Networking bridges operate at the OSI model's Data Link layer (Layer 2), and there are two types: the Transparent bridge and the Source Routing bridge. A Transparent Bridge works by filtering and forwarding frames based on MAC addresses without altering the data packet, allowing devices on the same network segment to communicate seamlessly. Meanwhile, a Source Routing Bridge determines the path a data packet should take based on routing information in the packet header, allowing it to navigate multiple network segments.

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using a bridge as a network device.

Bridges enhance network efficiency by reducing collisions and traffic but are slower and more expensive than repeaters. Want to learn more about Bridge? If yes, read the What is Bridge in Computer Network article. 

Gateway

When referring to networking (network devices gateway), a gateway is a networked device that serves as an entry point into another network. A wireless router, for example, is frequently used as the default gateway in a home network. In short, a gateway acts as a messenger agent, taking data from one network, interpreting it, and transferring it to another. Gateways, also known as protocol converters, can operate at any OSI model layer.

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using a gateway as a network device.

Gateways expand network connectivity and manage traffic well but are expensive and can slow down data transmission. Want to learn more about Gateway? If yes, read the What is Gateway in Networking article. 

Modem

In regards to networking (network devices modem), a modem is a piece of hardware that enables a computer to transmit and receive data over telephone lines. In a nutshell, a modem is a piece of hardware that connects a computer or router to a broadband network.

When a signal is sent, the device converts digital data to an analog audio signal and sends it over a phone line. Similarly, when an analog signal is received, it is converted back to a digital signal by the modem. Onboard modems, internal modems, external modems, and removable modems are all examples of modems. A modem operates at the OSI model’s physical layer (Layer 1) or Data link layer (Layer 2), depending on the type.

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using a modem as a network device.

Modems provide essential internet connectivity but have limited traffic management and slower speeds compared to other devices. Want to learn more about Modem? If yes, read the What is Modem article. 

Repeater

With regards to networking (network devices repeater), a repeater is an item that boosts the strength of a signal so that it can travel longer distances without losing quality. These devices are commonly used in networks to help data reach further destinations.

A range extender or wireless repeater, for example, is a repeater that extends the range and strength of a Wi-Fi signal. A repeater is effective in office buildings, schools, and factories where a single wireless router cannot reach all areas. A repeater operates at the OSI model’s physical layer (Layer 1).

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using a repeater as a network device.

Repeaters are cost-effective and easy to set up but have limited functionality in managing network traffic and connecting different networks. Want to learn more about Repeaters? If yes, read the What are Repeaters in Computer Networks article. 

Access Point

In terms of networking, an access point (AP) is a wireless network device that acts as a portal for devices to connect to a local area network. Access points can extend an existing network’s wireless coverage and increase the number of users who can connect. Wireless access points (WAPs) are devices that combine a transmitter and receiver (transceiver) to form a wireless LAN (WLAN). The access point operates at the OSI model’s Data Link layer (Layer 2).

The table below highlights the key advantages and disadvantages of using an access point as a network device.

Access points offer mobility and ease of installation but are limited by range, installation complexity, and susceptibility to interference.

Conclusion

A solid understanding of network equipment can help you design and build a secure network for your business. However, you must closely monitor the activities surrounding your network equipment and the system to ensure that each component operates at peak efficiency. Strong security is also critical for keeping it safe from unauthorized access.