1.8 Networking Basics

Devices that move data

Networks rely on hardware to send and receive traffic. A router connects different networks and directs data between them using IP addresses. A switch connects devices within a single network and forwards data using MAC addresses. A modem converts signals between your local network and your ISP (Internet Service Provider).

IP addresses and protocols

Every device on a network needs an IP address to be identified and located. Protocols are the agreed-upon rules that let devices communicate — TCP/IP governs how data is broken into packets and delivered reliably, HTTP/HTTPS governs web traffic, and DNS translates domain names into IP addresses.

Network types and topology

A LAN (Local Area Network) covers a small area like a home or office, while a WAN (Wide Area Network) spans large distances, connecting multiple LANs. Network topology describes how devices are arranged and connected — common layouts include star, bus, and mesh, each affecting speed, cost, and fault tolerance.

Key terms

Router

Connects different networks and directs traffic between them using IP addresses.

Switch

Connects devices within one network and forwards data using MAC addresses.

TCP/IP

Protocol suite governing how data is broken into packets and reliably delivered across networks.

LAN vs WAN

LAN covers a small area (home/office); WAN spans large distances, connecting multiple LANs.

DNS

Domain Name System — translates domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses.

Try an AP-style question

Which address identifies a device's network interface hardware?

1. Port number
2. MAC address
3. IP address
4. Domain name