This document defines and describes the basic components of a computer network. It explains that a network interface card formats and sends/receives data between connected nodes. A hub connects all computers in a network, while a switch uses addresses to route requests to specific servers. Servers run operating systems and store shared data, with file servers storing files and printer servers managing printers. Clients can send and receive data from other network computers. A modem converts signals between a landline and the Internet. A router directs data from the modem to connected devices like computers, using cables or wireless connections.

1. Basic Components of a
Computer Network
By
Edison Francis BSc
IT Teacher
St David’s Catholic Secondary School, Grenada

2. Network Components

3. Functions of Network Components
 Network Interface Connection [NIC]
 A network card that formats, send and receive the data at the
receiving node or device.

4. Functions of Network Components…
 Hub
 A device that connects all the computer in a network to each
other.

5. Functions of Network Components…
 Switch
 It is like a hub, however, instead of broadcasting incoming data
request, it uses the physical device address in the incoming
request to transfer the request to correct server computer.

6. Functions of Network Components…
 Server: A computer that runs operating system and hold data that is
shared over a computer network.
 A file server is a high-performance computer containing large capacity
hard disk drives that are available to all network users
 It is not used as a normal computer terminal but manages and shares files.
 Printer server is a computer dedicated to managing all printers on the
network.

7. Functions of Network Components…
 Client: a computer that is connected to a network.
 It can send data and receive data sent by other computers on
the network.

8. Functions of Network Components…
 Modem: Modulator/demodulator.
 It is a device normally provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) to
grant access to the Internet.
 It converts analogue and digital signals between your landline and the
Internet.

9. Functions of Network Components…
Router:
A device that directs data from the modem and sends it to
the different devices including computers, laptops, games
consoles, digital televisions and mobile devices that are
connected to it.
These devices may be connected directly to the router
wirelessly or through cables.

10. Functions of Network Components…
 Cables:
 wires used to connect more than one computers or other
devices such as printers and scanner to each other.
Twisted pair Coaxial Fibre optic

11. END