16 bullets on the basics: Computer Networks [MEMEX//CYBERSECURITY]
[Memex Sinclair // Cybersecurity Tradecraft #6]
Here are 16 bullets on the basics of understanding network devices you should know about.
[Memex Sinclair // Cybersecurity Tradecraft #6]
2. A network is the infrastructure that enables devices to communicate with each other.
Network devices maintain information and services for network users. They connect over both wired and wireless connections.
3. These devices send data packets after connecting to the network.
Data packets are how information is sent and received by different devices on a network.
4. Network devices are specialized vehicles like routers and switches that manage what is being sent and received over the internet.
5. A router connects to the internet through a modem provided by your internet service provider (ISP).
6. A firewall is a security device that monitors the traffic going in and out of a network.
The organization configures the security rules of the firewall.
7. Firewalls usually reside between the secured and controlled internal network and the untrusted network resources outside the organization, such as the Internet.
8. A router directs traffic to the devices on a home network, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
These devices access files located on servers and allow devices on different networks to communicate with each other.
8. Modems receive digital signals from the internet and translate them into analog signals that travel through the physical connection provided by an ISP.
This usually means the modem connects to a router that takes the decoded signal and sends it back to the local network
9. A wireless access point sends and receives digital signals over radio waves, creating a wireless network.
Devices with wireless adapters connect to the access point using Wi-Fi.
10. Wi-Fi refers to a set of standards that are used by network devices to communicate wireless
11. A switch is an optional device that can connect more devices to a network by providing additional ports and Ethernet connections.
12. Every device on a network has a unique MAC address and IP address to identify it on the network.
14. Servers provide information and services for devices like computers, smart home devices, and smartphones on the network.
15. Devices that connect to a server are called clients. The client-server model is a good way to understand this interaction.
A requesting program is called a client.
The answering program is called a server.
16. Virtualization tools are pieces of software that perform network operations. These execute operations that a hub, switch, router, or modem would normally complete. Cloud service providers offer these tools and provide cost savings and scalability