Which devices are used to connect to Internet?

Networks connect us all in the modern world. Whether it is sending an email, posting a picture to social media, submitting projects or assignments online, everything requires a networked device.

A networking device is defined as an electronic device that is needed to communicate and interact between devices on a computer network. If this sounds difficult to understand, then let’s simplify this definition. Networking devices are hardware devices that connect computers, laptops, mobiles, printers, and other devices to a network.

Why Are Networking Devices Becoming Essential?

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, more and more organizations have switched over to the work-from-home method. Due to the increase of people working from home, the need for instant connection and fast sharing of information and files became essential. Every aspect of online life experienced a surge, from virtual meetings to online classes to online shopping.

The need to connect instantly for work or classes becomes challenging using just your mobile data. In such dire straits, networking devices like Wi-Fi routers and modems come in handy, especially if you are working from home.

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What Are the Different Types of Networking Devices?

When it comes to selecting the right device for your needs, you are clearly spoilt for choice. With a plethora of networking devices available online, one should expect to be bewildered.

Examples of such devices include:

Router

 A device that connects two or more IP networks. Essentially, a router serves two purposes: 1) It manages transmissions between networks by forwarding data packets to their appropriate IP addresses 2) It allows multiple devices to share a single internet connection.

Modem

A modem is a hardware device that allows computers, routers, or switches to connect to the internet.

Switch

A multiport device used to connect several computers via the Ethernet port.

Hotspots

Are Physical locations where people use Wi-Fi to access the internet via a wireless local area network with a router that is connected to an internet service provider.

Ethernet Hubs

An ethernet hub connects several computers together. It also acts as a repeater and amplifies signals.

Gateway

A gateway in the computer networking acts as a ‘gate’ or entry and exit point between networks.

Repeater

Repeaters are essentially range extenders as they forward wireless signals from a WiFi router in order to cover a larger area.

Bridges

To connect multiple LAN network, one needs a bridge; it acts as a network aggregator, connecting multiple LAN networks to create one large LAN network.

It is important to understand the features, benefits, and ideal usage of the devices. There are several devices that are suited for professional and personal uses. While working from home, you might not need all the above-mentioned devices. Therefore, choose a device that echoes your purpose.

Which Networking Device Is Right for Your Home

The internet is used for different purposes at home. Some people use it for work, others for gaming, and some for other purposes. The networking devices that are mostly required are routers, modems and hotspots.

Let's take a look at how these devices function and how they differ from each other.

Router

Modem

Hotspot

Purpose

To provide wired/wireless connection

Purpose

To provide wired connection

Purpose

To provide wireless connection

Usage

Mostly for multiple users

Usage

For single-user

Usage

For multiple-users.

Since it's portable,

it can be carried

along while travelling.

Speed

Fast speed. However, as more

devices connect,

the speed often reduces.

Speed

Highest speed as it

is used by a single device

Speed

Slower than the two due

to connectivity incoherence.

Which Networking Device Is Right for Your Office?

When working from an office, networking devices such as routers, modems, hotspots and switches are largely needed. The amount of bandwidth required for devices in an office is higher due to the greater number of users.

The networking devices you will normally need in an office are routers, switches, modems, and Ethernet cables. Devices can be chosen according to the size of the organization and data-access requirements.

You can also read our blog on comfortable WFH set up to get ideas on how to setup your home office.

Consider These Top Brands for Networking Devices

While there are numerous companies and brands with networking devices on the market, there are a few that stand out among the rest. Some of them are:

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