Network Devices
Several kinds of hardware work behind the scenes to make networking possible. This lesson covers the most common ones.
What You'll Learn
- What a router does
- What a switch does
- What an access point does
Routers and Switches
A router connects different networks together and directs traffic between them -- for example, connecting your home network to the internet. A switch connects multiple devices within the same local network, allowing them to communicate directly.
Access Points
A wireless access point lets devices connect to a network over Wi-Fi instead of a physical cable. Many home routers combine a router, switch, and access point into a single device.
Example
In a home setup, one small box often acts as the router, switch, and Wi-Fi access point all at once -- which is why it's simply called a "router" in everyday language.
Key Concepts
Key Takeaways
- A router connects different networks and directs traffic between them
- A switch connects devices within the same local network
- An access point provides wireless connectivity to a network
Knowledge Check
Which device connects your home network to the wider internet?