Network devices are essential building blocks of computer networks. These devices play various roles in enabling communication, data transfer, and network management. Here are some key network devices used to set up a network:

• Router
  • Connects different networks and routes data between them.- Makes forwarding decisions based on IP addresses.
  • Often includes firewall and NAT functionalities.

• Switch
  •  Connects devices within a local network (LAN). 
  • Uses MAC addresses to forward data to specific devices. 
  • Efficiently manages network traffic by creating dedicated connections.

• Hub:
  • An older device that connects multiple devices in a network segment. 
  • Broadcasts data to all connected devices, leading to network congestion. 
  • Not commonly used due to limitations in performance and security.

• Access Point (AP)
  • Provides wireless connectivity for devices to connect to a network. 
  • Supports Wi-Fi standards and allows devices to join the network.

• Firewall
  •  Filters and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. 
  •  Helps protect the network from unauthorized access and threats. 
  •  Can be implemented using hardware or software solutions.

• Gateway
  •  Connects networks using different communication protocols or technologies.
  •  Acts as an intermediary between different types of networks.

• Bridge
  • Connects two or more separate networks or LANs(Local Area Networks).
  • Layer 2 device that uses MAC addresses to forward data between networks.

• Network Interface Card (NIC)
  • Hardware component that connects a computer or device to a network.
  • Provides a unique MAC address for device identification.

• Network Cable
  • Physical medium used to transmit data signals between devices.
  • Types include Ethernet cables (Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 7) and fibre-optic cables.

• Server
  • Hosts applications, services, and data that are accessed by clients.
  • Can be dedicated to specific functions like web hosting, file storage, VM hosting or databases.

• Client Device
  • Device that connects to and interacts with network services hosted on servers.
  • Examples include computers, smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices.

These devices work together to create functional and efficient computer networks, whether they are small-scale local area networks (LANs) or large-scale wide area networks (WANs). They make up the basic building block of computer networks. Understanding how each device works is essential to creating an efficient computer networking environment.