Necessary Networking Tools You Need to Know

Every organization, whether it’s a farm with a stable full of horses or an office with a stable filled with people, depends on its access to the Internet. Most people take for granted their ability to connect whether it be with their smartphone via Wi-Fi or their workstation, which is typically hardwired. There is a whole infrastructure behind the near ubiquitous Internet access you enjoy. Today, we will go through some of the essential hardware needed. 

Modem

A modem is used to convert digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over analog communication lines (such as cable or fiber) or vice versa. It’s the central device of your network as it allows for connection to the Internet. 

Router

Routers are a fundamental networking device that connects different networks together, such as your local network to the Internet. They route data packets between devices in your network and external networks.

Switch

Network switches are used to connect multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). They operate at the data link layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and forward data only to the device it is intended for.

Access Point 

Wireless access points are used to create or extend wireless networks. They allow Wi-Fi enabled devices to connect to a wired network.

Firewall

Firewalls are security devices that filter and monitor network traffic, helping to protect a network from unauthorized access, malware, and other security threats. They need to be updated regularly to ensure that you have all the necessary threat definitions covered.

Hub

Hubs are basic network devices that connect multiple devices in a Local Area Network (LAN). However, they operate at the physical layer and simply broadcast data to all connected devices, which can result in network congestion.

Network Attached Storage

Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices are specialized storage systems designed to store and manage data accessible over a network, providing file sharing and backup capabilities.

Many times modern networking forgoes the physical connections, but many businesses still employ all types of network connections and cables to facilitate the needs of their staff. If you would like to learn more about modern networking and how we can help you build a secure and robust network for your business, regardless of your business, give the IT professionals at Washington Works a call today at 301-571-5040.