Essential Network Equipment

Front

Directs data packets between networks.

Back

Router

Front

Connects devices within a single network.

Back

Switch

Front

Converts digital data to analog for transmission.

Back

Modem

Front

Extends wireless network coverage.

Back

Access Point

Front

Monitors and controls incoming/outgoing traffic.

Back

Firewall

Front

Hardware to connect a computer to a network.

Back

Network Interface Card (NIC)

Front

Amplifies signals to extend network range.

Back

Repeater

Front

Connects and filters traffic between two networks.

Back

Bridge

Front

Connects different network architectures.

Back

Gateway

Front

Distributes network traffic across servers.

Back

Load Balancer