3.4 Network Hardware
NIC
This stands for a Network Interface Card or Controller. It's an internal physical component which enables a device to connect to a network (also known as network adapters). They have a built in ethernet port. You can also get WNIC (W -> Wireless) which allows a device to use Wi-Fi.
The primary function is to send and receive data packets between the device and the network. The NIC converts data into signals that can be sent (wired network -> voltage / wireless network -> radio waves). They are normally on a motherboard but can be added as an expansion card.
MAC Address
I have discussed it here.
IP Address
An Internet Protocol Address is a unique numerical identifier which is assigned to devices (by a network provider - ISP) connected to the internet. These are used to identify and locate devices on the internet. You can get either IPv4 or IPv6 addresses.
A router can assign private IP addresses to devices connected within its network. These are often dynamic and can change.
Router
This device connects one network to another and can be used to connect to the internet (). It also analyses data packets to send them to their destinations. The network access device used in your home network will have a router built into it.
Exam Questions
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