Networking Glossary

Introduction

This page explains some of the fundamental concepts, components and terminology associated with standard computer networks. These networks are often referred to as local area networks (LAN). This type of network is technically known as an Ethernet network.

Network

An Ethernet network consists of two or more devices effectively connected together as shown in the diagram.

Since most devices only have one physical network connection socket, connecting more than two devices is not possible without the use of an additional device known as a network switch.

Network Switch

A network switch, often just referred to as a switch, allows multiple network devices to be connected together in a star formation. Switches come in different types and sizes. The most common type of switch is known as a "dumb" switch because it is not user configurable. A switch's size is defined by the number of network sockets, or ports, it has. The diagram below shows a four port switch.

A switch functions as a multipoint connector where any device, attached to any of the switch ports, is effectively connected to all other devices connected via any of the other ports.

IP Address

An IP address is a series of 4 numbers, in the range 0 to 255, assigned to each device on the network. Each device on the network needs a unique IP address to communicate with other devices. Problems will occur if two devices on the network have the same IP address.

Assignment

There are two ways to assign IP addresses to a device on the network, Static and Dynamic.

Static Assignment (Manual)

Static (fixed) assignment is where a fixed IP address is manually programmed into the device. This is normally done using a settings menu on the device. Some devices do not support static IP assignment.

Dynamic Assignment (Automatic)

Dynamic Assignment is where the IP address is assigned automatically, by the network. This done using a mechanism called DHCP.

DHCP

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a standard protocol for assigning IP addresses automatically to devices on the network.

Router

A router is a device that manages the boundary between two subnets.

Wireless Access Point (WAP)

Appendix

Advantages/Disadvantages Of IP Assignment Methods

Static IP Advantages

• The IP address is reliable as it always remains the same.

Disadvantages

• There is a small time/labour overhead in manual configuration
• There is a potential for error such as address conflicts
• If the device is moved to another network it will probably need a new address
• Need to keep a record of all addresses on the network