Hardware - Network Gear

Computer networks may utilize hubs, switches, routers, adapters, cables and several other types of hardware equipment. Become savvy in how network gear works and how to use it.
Wireless/Networking Categories
Our Wireless/Networking Expert
Wireless/Networking Essentials
Readers Recommend
View More
7 Subcategories in Hardware - Network Gear
17 Articles in: Hardware - Network Gear
Hubs and Switches
These inexpensive, simple but effective small boxes provide a central connection point for the networking of multiple computers.
Internet wireless router - Creative Crop/Photodisc/Getty Images
What a network router can (and can't) do for you
What is a router? In computer networking, routers join two networks together. Some support only Ethernet connections while others also support Wi-Fi.
Young businessman looking at paperwork on desk by window - Leonard McLane/Iconica/Getty Images
How to Add a Printer to Your Network
Networking your printer allows it to be shared among all computers at home rather than just one. Printing from your phone or iPad is also possible. The steps to set it up properly depend on the type of printer and the home network's configuration.
Wireless Router - Nicholas Eveleigh/Stockbyte/Getty Images
Best 802.11g Wireless Routers for Home Use
Index of 802.11g wireless broadband routers, with commentary and links to a price comparison engine. These 802.11g wireless router products are best suited for home computer networks.
Introduction to Hubs - Hub Technology
A hub makes the networking of multiple computers in the home or office easier. What exactly is a hub, and which one is the best for you?
Ethernet Switch - Gazimal - Getty Images
What a switch device can and cannot do for your network
A network switch is a central communication device for local area Ethernet networks. Many home broadband routers feature an embedded Ethernet switch.
Computer Networking FAQ #11 - What Is the Difference Between a Hub and a Switch?
What is the difference between a hub and a switch? This networking FAQ and many others are answered here.
FireWire
FireWire is a high performance networking standard based on a serial bus architecture. The computer industry created the IEEE 1394 FireWire standard in 1995.
Two women using laptop at home - Westend61/Getty Images
Why your organization's network might need a Layer 3 switch
Layer 3 switches are used in conjunction with traditional switches and network routers on some corporate networks, particularly those with VLANs.
Businesswoman working on laptop - Thomas Barwick/Iconica/Getty Images
The Beginner's Guide to MTU Sizes
The MTU is the maximum size of a single data unit (e.g., an Ethernet frame) of digital communications. MTU sizes are properties of physical network interfaces, measured in bytes.
PCMCIA - Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
PCMCIA is an industry organization best known for developing a standard network adapter called the PC Card. Most notebook computers contain two PCMCIA slots that hold one or two of these cards.
Man in warehouse using laptop - Zing Images/Taxi/Getty Images
What is a Network Bridge?
A network bridge device filters data traffic at an inter-network boundary. Bridges reduce the amount of traffic on a local area network (LAN) by dividing it into two segments.
Happy senior man using laptop on outdoor sofa - Hero Images/Digital Vision/Getty Images
What is a Computer Network Repeater?
Network repeaters regenerate incoming signals to extend the range of local area networks. The actual network devices that serve as repeaters usually have some other name.
2009 Holiday Gift Guide for Wireless and Home Computer Networking
These products make excellent holiday gifts for anyone who uses computers, phones and other mobile devices. Wireless and computer network gadgets help friends and family better communicate, have more fun and improve their productivity.
RS-232
RS-232 is a telecommunications standard for connecting certain types of electronic equipment. RS-232 interfaces called ports are used on many older PC computers and modems. Devices can be connected by RS-232 cables or wirelessly for computer networking.
-
The five basic types of mobile devices for computer networks explained
These five basic types of mobile devices have emerged as the most popular clients of wireless computer networks.
Netgear EX6200 Wi-Fi Range Extender - about.com
Looking for a mid-range 802.11ac Wi-Fi range extender?
These wireless range extenders support AC1200 (802.11ac) Wi-Fi, a great solution for signal strength and reach issues on high speed home networks.
View More