Computer and Communication Networks

Chapter 3. Networking Devices

This chapter focuses on networking devices. Familiarity with networking hardware devices is essential for understanding how a local area or a wide area network operates. This chapter covers the following aspects of network component functionality.

• Multiplexers

• Modems and Internet access devices

• Switching and routing devices

• Router structure

The three main categories of networking devices are multiplexers, modems, and switching devices. We start with the architecture of multiplexers, introducing types of multiplexers and some useful analytical methods of multiplexers. Next, we consider networking modems for accessing the Internet from remote and residential areas. Then, we analyze switching devices, such as ...