Common Types of Network Devices and Their Functions

Introduction

A computer network comprises a collection of interconnected devices. These devices, including computers, printers, and other data-transmitting tools, are linked through communication channels. Various types of network devices are utilized to establish, maintain, protect, and improve network connections. Network Devices carry out different functions at different layers of the OSI model and have different features. In this blog post, we will discuss Network Devices in Computer Networks, their purpose, and their different types.

Before getting into the different types of Network Devices in Computer Networks, let’s first understand what network devices are.

What are Network Devices?

Network devices are hardware components that facilitate connection establishment and control network traffic between devices within a computer network. Apart from that, these devices manage their operations. They can function at different layers of the OSI model, like the data link layer, physical layer, network layer, or application layer. Some may even operate across multiple layers, while others are designed for only one layer.

Network devices can be broadly classified into two categories:

• End devices: End devices are the ones that originate or terminate the data flow on a network. They can be hosts (such as computers, servers, printers) or clients (such as web browsers and email clients). End devices have a unique address that identifies them on the network.
• Intermediary devices: Intermediary devices are the ones that connect end devices and allow data transmission on a network. Intermediary devices can be hubs, switches, routers, repeaters, gateways, firewalls, or access points. These devices are responsible for performing functions like filtering, forwarding, amplifying, or translating the data packets.

Let’s discuss the purpose of Network devices in detail.

Purpose of Network Devices

The primary objective of network devices is to facilitate communication and collaboration between nodes within a network. They also play a role in enhancing network performance, security, and reliability. Some specific functions performed by network devices include:

• Expanding the network’s coverage by amplifying or regenerating signals.
• Dividing or filtering traffic to create subnetworks within the network.
• Interconnecting different types of networks by converting or translating protocols.
• Directing data packets to their intended destinations by determining the optimal path.
• Safeguarding the network against access or malicious attacks through policy enforcement and rule implementation.
• Enabling wireless connectivity to the network through the creation of a hotspot or bridging.

Now we have a better understanding of computer network devices, let’s move on to the different types of networking devices.

Common Types of Network Devices and Their Functions

Many network devices can be used in computer networking. Some of these have been explained below:

1. Switch

Switches serve as networking devices that function at the data link layer (layer 2) of the OSI model. The main purpose of switches is to connect end devices within a network and allow the forwarding of data packets utilizing their MAC addresses.

By creating collision domains for each port, switches effectively mitigate collisions and congestion on the network. Additionally, switches are capable of configuring VLANs (Virtual LANs) to establish logical groups of devices on a network.

2. Bridge

Bridges are also a type of networking device that operates at the data link layer (layer 2) of the OSI model. Their primary role is to connect segments within a network and enable the forwarding of data packets based on their corresponding MAC addresses.

Similar to switches, bridges create collision domains for each segment effectively. This will help in minimizing collisions and congestion on the network. Furthermore, bridges are equipped with filtering capabilities to discard unwanted packets or forwarding to pass desired packets.

3. Router

Routers are also networking devices that operate at the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model. The main function of the router is to connect networks and allow the forwarding of data packets based on their respective IP addresses.

By creating broadcast domains for each interface, routers effectively reduce broadcast traffic on the network. Apart from that, routers use different routing protocols such as RIP (Routing Information Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), or BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) to determine paths for transmission through routing processes.

There are many types of Routers in computer networking. Some of the common routers are:

• Edge Routers
• Access Routers
• Core Routers
• Brouters
• Wireless Routers

4. Repeater

Repeaters are sometimes also known as “Signal Booster”. The main function of the repeater is to regenerate an incoming signal from the sender before retransmitting it to the receiver. The layer at which it operates is the physical layer of the OSI model.

This layer is mainly responsible for the actual transmission and reception of the data over the physical medium such as cables or fiber optics. A repeater can extend the range of the network by boosting the signal and reducing the error and loss of data. Apart from that, repeaters are also responsible for converting the data between different network signals, such as optical, wireless, or electrical signals.

5. Gateway

Gateways are intermediary devices that usually operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and are responsible for connecting networks that are using different protocols or architectures. They do so by translating or converting data formats or protocols between different networks.

A gateway is one of the important networking devices as it acts as a crucial component of any network architecture that involves multiple networks. Apart from this, Gateways can carry out various other functions such as filtering, security, routing, and encryption.

6. Hubs

Hubs are intermediary devices that usually operate at the physical layer (Layer I) of the OSI model that connect multiple devices on a local network. Hubs function by broadcasting data to all the devices that are connected to it, regardless of their destination. Hubs can help in simplifying the wiring and installation of a LAN by providing a central point of connection. Hubs are capable of creating a single collision domain and a single broadcast domain.

Apart from its functions that are mentioned above, it does have some limitations, such as low security, low performance, and high collision rate.

7. Modem

Modems are the network devices that usually operate at the physical layer (Layer I) of the OSI model. These devices can modulate or demodulate analog signals into digital signals or vice versa.

Apart from that, with the help of modems, digital devices can communicate with one another over analog transmission media such as telephone lines or cable lines. Modems can easily connect a LAN to a WAN or the Internet.

There are different types of modems. Some of these are:

• Optical Modem
• Cable Modems
• Dial Modems
• Satellite Modems

8. Access Points

Access points are network devices that usually operate at the data link layer (Layer II) of the OSI model and are mainly used to bridge the wired and wireless network. In simple terms, it is a device that allows wireless-capable devices to connect to a wired network. Here, the data can be transmitted and received using radio waves or infrared signals.

Apart from this, an access point can also be utilized to extend the range and strength of wireless signals. Most of the time, it is used in large offices or public places that need to provide wireless access to many users or devices. Further, it can support different wireless standards and protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or IoT.

Access Points are classified into 3 categories. These are:

• Standalone access point
• Multifunction access point
• Controlled access point

9. NIC

NIC stands for Network Interface Card and operates at the data link layer (Layer II) of the OSI model. It is a hardware component that is responsible for enabling a device to connect to a network. A NIC also has one or more ports that allow different types of cables or wireless signals to connect to the network.

NIC further provides a physical interface for data transmission and reception purposes. Apart from that, it also has a unique MAC address that identifies the device in a network.

Some of the major tasks performed by NIC are data transfer, network traffic engineering, and interrupt support.

10. Firewall

A firewall is an intermediary device that operates at various layers of the OSI Model depending on its type. It can be either hardware or software, and its main purpose is to protect the network from any unauthorized access or malicious attacks by enforcing policies or rules.

Now, the question that arises is how these attacks can be stopped. All malicious activities can be controlled via a firewall as it can block or allow packets based on their source, destination address, port number, or protocol type.

Some of the security functions carried out by firewalls are:

• Encryption
• Authentication
• Logging
• Auditing

There are various types of firewalls. Some of these are:

• Proxy firewall
• Stateful inspection firewall
• Unified threat management (UTM) firewall
• Next-generation firewall (NGFW)
• Threat-focused NGFW

These are the various networking devices mainly used in Computer Networks.

Functions of Networking Devices

Here are the functions of networking devices:

• They help in sending and receiving data between different devices.
• They help in connecting various devices to the network efficiently and securely.
• Network Devices help in expanding networks and solving signal problems.
• These help in improving network speed and better management of data flow.
• Networking devices also help in the protection of the network by controlling access and preventing threats.

Common Challenges and their Solutions in Network Device Management

Network device management involves a number of activities, including configuring, observing, and regulating devices that are involved in communication within a network, including routers, switches, firewalls, and servers. Network device management is a key component in making networks reliable, secure, and performing optimally. It assists organizations in protecting their networks from failure.

However, managing network devices can be a rather challenging process, and different issues may arise in an organization. Here are some common challenges along with their solution in network device management:

• Device Configuration and Compliance: It is preferable that all network devices are configured optimally and are configured to best practices based on the organizational policies, not forgetting the industry standards.
• Network Security: Implementation of security measures to network devices from different forms of attack including hacking, viruses, worms, and other forms of DoS attack.
• Device Monitoring and Troubleshooting: Suppressing as well as detecting issues that may pertain to the network device components, its software, or its configurations.
• Scalability and Capacity Planning: Ensuring increasing network traffic in network devices as well as user demand.
• Inventory Management: Inventory management of all the networking devices, whether temporary or permanently placed within the facility and their configuration and maintenance record.
• Change Management: This covers the depths of changes to network devices and the administrative work of the network, including software updates, hardware upgrades, and/or changes in configurations.
• Compliance and Auditing: Checking whether the devices in a network are compliant with the rules set depending on legal standards like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, GDPR, etc.
• Cost Management: It is crucial to minimize avoidable expenses on network devices, including the costs of hardware and software, as well as the cost of hiring personnel to manage the network and maintenance contracts.
• Vendor Management: Supervising several product vendors such as the hardware and software vendors and service providers.
• Skillset and Training: It is important to ensure that the individuals in charge of the numerous network devices get the right skills and training.

Best Practices for Network Devices Security

Network device security is a condition in which network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, and servers cannot be opened, Used, Interrupted, or even destroyed by other people or programs. Security must always be deployed on the network device to minimize the threats posed by cybercriminals. The main purpose is to protect sensitive data and ensure that the necessary network services are always running.

Network device security is important because it helps to:

• Protect from interference from other users and malicious software, devices, and information within the network.
• Protect against malware viruses and other criminal threats commonly associated with cybercriminals.
• Implement measures that will guarantee the sustainability of the data quality and privacy.
• The way to reduce the risk of network downtime and service interruption.
• Meet regulatory standards and guidelines and meet the best practices of the industry.

Here are some best practices for network device security:

• Use Strong Passwords and Authentication: Network devices must be protected by strong passwords, not easily guessable passwords, the use of multiple factors to verify the user, and the use of RBAC to control access.
• Keep Software Up to Date: Maintain the firmware to the latest versions on all the network devices in order to counter the security holes that hackers might exploit.
• Configure Devices Securely: Set standard all network devices securely by utilizing features like encryption, firewalls, and access control lists (ACLs).
• Use Secure Protocols: Employ secure communication protocols like the Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, SSH, and SFTP, among others.
• Monitor Network Devices: Keeping an eye on network devices that are showing any signs of suspicious activities with the help of tools such as IDS and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM).
• Implement Network Segmentation: Subdivide the network into smaller isolated segments to reduce the flow from one segment to another in the event of intrusion.
• Use Encryption: The data should be encrypted, while on transmission, as well as when stored on the terminal or any other storage media.
• Limit Access to Network Devices: Network devices should only be accessible to authorized personnel to minimize sources of intrusion, using components like an Access control list (ACL), role-based access control, and so on.
• Conduct Regular Security Audits: Perform security checks periodically in order to be able to check on the level of security or insecurity.

Benefits of Monitoring Network Devices

Overseeing network devices is critically important to guarantee the dependability and security of a network, as well as to achieve its optimum performance. It includes monitoring the devices within a network, including routers, switches, firewalls, and servers, with a view to addressing any emerging problems. Here are some reasons why monitoring network devices is important:

• Enables organizations to avoid cases of network breakdown and enhances the efficiency of their network.
• It cuts down the amount of time consumed in diagnosing the issues, thereby improving network utilization.
• Improves compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Provides real-time visibility into network activity.
• Helps with capacity planning and reduces costs.
• Enhances user experience and productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is network devices and examples?

Network devices are hardware components that connect computers and other devices in a network. Examples are routers, switches, hubs, modems, firewalls, NICs, and many others.

Q2. What type of devices are used in networks?

There are various types of devices used in networks; some of the most common are hubs, switches, routers, bridges, gateways, and many others. All these devices perform certain functions as per the requirement of the network or the system.

Q3. What are the 8 types of network?

The 8 types of networks are:

• Local Area Network (LAN)
• System-Area Network
• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Wide Area Network (WAN)
• Campus Area Network (CAN)
• Personal Area Network (PAN)
• Storage-Area Network (SAN)

Q4. What is computer network and its devices?

A computer network is nothing but a system of interconnected devices that can communicate and share data. Some of the devices that are used are routers, switches, hubs, and firewalls. These devices perform different functions in order to enable network connectivity and security.

Conclusion

Network devices are essential components of computer networks that are mainly used to enable communication as well as data transfer between different devices in a network. Different computer network devices are utilized, and they perform different functions at different layers of the network model. In this blog, we have explained what are network devices, and their purpose, and discussed different types of network devices in computer networks.