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Switch
Switch is also used to connect Node 2
multiple computers in a
network but is more intelligent Node 1

than a hub. A switch receives a Node 3 Switch
data packet from a computer, Data from one node
is transmitted to the
determines which computer the packet is intended for, and destination node only.
sends it to that computer only.
Node 4
Router
Router is a device that is used to connect multiple computer networks
together. It receives and transmits data packets within a network as well as
between different networks. A router is also capable of splitting large data
packets into smaller parts and transmitting them through different paths to
the destination computer.

Registered Jack 45 (RJ - 45)
The RJ-45 is an eight-pin connector that is commonly used to connect the NIC of a
computer to a hub or a switch.

NETWORK TOPOLOGIES
A Network Topology is the physical arrangement in which computers and other network devices are
connected with one another. Each independent device on a network is called a node. Based on the
arrangement of nodes in a network, topology can be classified as – Bus, Ring, Star, or Mesh.

Bus Topology
In Bus Topology all the nodes are connected to a single cable called
the backbone cable or bus. Data is transmitted from one end to the
other through the bus cable. Each node accepts the data meant for
it and uploads the data for transmission to another node.
Bus topology is easy to install and manage. The cable requirements
are relatively small and less expensive. However, if there are breaks
in the bus, the entire network shuts down.

Ring Topology

In Ring Topology, each node is connected to two other nodes, forming a
closed loop or ring. Data is transmitted through the ring in one direction
only, either ‘clockwise’ or ‘anticlockwise’.

Ring topology is easy to install and manage. However, if only one cable
or device fails, the entire network is rendered inoperable.

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