Networking Hardware
Tips & Advice to help you make your decision on Networking Hardware
Although software forms an integral part of any computer system, hardware components can be just vital. This is certainly true when it comes to networking hardware. Hardware components such as routers, hubs, switches, gateways, networking cables, access points, modems, ISDN adapters and firewalls all play a vital role in any networking operation.
Networking hardware is widely available from reliable providers nationwide. These providers can furnish you with all the hardware components necessary to operate and maintain a computer network. Other commonly used elements of hardware for networking include copper-based Ethernet adapters and network bridges. Computer networks generally also employ datacenter equipment such as storage areas, file servers and database servers.
You would never choose to run substandard networking software and it's a good idea to practice the same policy in regard to hardware. The quality of any network is largely based on the hardware and software components it is comprised of. Working with a reliable provider of hardware components can ensure that your network benefits from containing quality, well-made parts. Mobile phones, PDAs and other personal electronics device are also sometimes regarded as being network-related hardware. You can find out more by visiting the links to providers on the left.
Networking Hardware Key Terms
Learn the meanings of networking hardware key termsBy Missy Duncan Many companies set up networks in the office to share files and Internet service. When setting up or updating your network, you will have to shop for networking hardware. For someone who is not familiar with network systems this task can be daunting. There are many words and phrases used by hardware companies that can be confusing, especially for someone new to networking. Learning what networking hardware key terms mean allow you to shop with ease and purchase the appropriate hardware for your system.
LAN
A group of computers and their accessories, such as printers, that are connected together by a server is a LAN, or local area network. A local area network allows you to share files and programs with other computers on the network.
Try: TechTarget supplies more information about LAN and LAN servers. Computing.net also provides information about local area networks.
E-MTA
E-MTA, or Embedded-Multimedia Terminal Adapter, connects a cable modem to a phone line to provide a combination voice and IP transfer. An E-MTA provides a dial tone for VoIP calls.
Try: Learn more about E-MTA at eHomeUpgrade. Find information on E-MTA at Embedded.com. Cable Digital News also has a detailed definition of an E-MTA.
Femtocell
A Femtocell, or wireless access point station, is a device that enhances wireless and cell phone signals in an office building. Femtocells are commonly used with VoIP and Wi-Fi Connections.
Try: Discover more about femtocells at the Technology Marketing Corporation. CommsDesign.com provides details about femtocells and how they work.
Router
A router is a device that is used to connect the LAN and the ISP, or Internet service provider. A router allows you to have one Ethernet or cable modem and connect it to multiple computers, thereby giving more than one computer Internet access.
Try: Learn more about routers at InetDaemon.com. Visit PC MECH to find information about router technology.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a type of cable or wire used to connect networks. An ethernet cable is thicker than a phone cord and is the most common cable used in LANs. Ethernet cables can transmit up to 100 MBPS.
Try: Find definitions, courses and tutorials about ethernet cables at Learnthat.com. Locate more information at Sharpened Productions.
VoIP
VoIP, or Voiceover Internet Protocol, allows users to make phone calls via their computer by using their Internet access as a phone line. VoIP refers to the hardware and software used to make the calls.
Try: Cheap56K provides more information about VoIP. Disruptive Telephony offers an article that details the definition of Voiceover Internet Protocol.
25 years experience in network design, installs & troubleshooting
Get Info On Equipment Cisco Used Access 10 Search Engines At Once.
Answer 5 Quick Questions & We'll Recommend the Best PCs For You.

