Basic Computer Network Components You’ll Need
A network component refers to a device, software, or hardware unit that plays a specific role in network communication. Network components make up the infrastructure that supports all data transmission and facilitates network connectivity, communication, operations, and management of a computer network. These components primarily facilitate and control the flow of information across the network. Sections below highlight the key hardware components.
What Is Network Topology? Explanation, Types & Diagramming
Network topology refers to the arrangement of different elements (links, nodes, etc.) of a computer network. Essentially, it's the topological structure of a network and may be depicted physically or logically. Physical topology refers to the placement of the network's various components, including device locations and cable installation, while logical topology shows how data flows within the network, regardless of its physical design.
How to Define, Measure, & Improve Network Bandwidth
Network bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given period of time. It's typically measured in bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (Kbps), megabits per second (Mbps), or gigabits per second (Gbps). In simpler terms, network bandwidth is like a pipe, and the data streams are like water flowing through that pipe. The larger the pipe (or higher the bandwidth), the more water (or data) can flow through it at one time, leading to faster transmission speeds. High-bandwidth networks are especially important for applications that require rapid data transmission, like video streaming, online gaming, or video conferencing.
What Is a Zero Trust Network? Principles & Advantages
A zero trust Network is a security model that assumes no user or device can be trusted by default, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network perimeter. Instead of relying on traditional methods of network security, a Zero-Trust Network requires verification for every person and device. In a zero-trust network, access is granted strictly based on necessity. Every device, user, and network flow must be authenticated and authorized before accessing resources. The guiding principle of this model is "never trust, always verify."
How to Measure, Improve & Maximize Network Efficiency
Network efficiency refers to the effectiveness of a network in achieving its objectives such as fast communication, smooth data transfer, and minimal disruption or downtime. It involves how well the network can handle traffic, how quickly data can be sent and received, and how reliably the network can operate. Network efficiency can be improved by different methods like updating the network infrastructure, optimizing the network configuration, managing network traffic, and implementing strategic prevention of network issues.
What Is Network Utilization & How to Monitor It
Network utilization refers to the amount or percentage of available network capacity that is currently being used. It's often expressed as a percentage. It measures how much data is being transmitted over a network at a given time, compared to the maximum data that the network can transmit. High network utilization can slow down the transmission speed and overall performance of the network, while low or optimal network utilization ensures that the network is performing efficiently. Monitoring and managing network utilization is critical in preventing poor performance and ensuring smooth operation.
Top Network Vulnerabilities & How to Prevent Them
Network vulnerabilities refer to weaknesses or gaps within a network infrastructure that can be exploited by cyber threats to gain unauthorized access or cause harm. These vulnerabilities are potential security risks that can be leveraged by malicious actors to disrupt or compromise network integrity and data security. Understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for organizations as they lay the foundation for implementing robust network security measures.
Top Network Threats & Risks (And How to Protect Yourself)
A network threat refers to any potential activity or event that could harm or interrupt the systems, applications and services operating on a network. These threats can compromise the security of the network by attacking its infrastructure with the primary target usually being information theft or service disruption. Examples of network threats include malware attacks, phishing attacks, ransomware, denial of service (DoS) attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches, among others. Network threats can be initiated intentionally by threat actors such as hackers or unintentionally via software vulnerabilities and user errors.
What is a Rogue Access Point & How to Protect Against Them
A rogue access point is a wireless access point (AP) that has been installed on a network without the network administrator's authorization. These access points can be set up maliciously by attackers or innocently by employees seeking to bypass network restrictions or improve connectivity results. Regardless of intent, rogue APs can expose an organization to various security risks, making their detection and management critical.
What Is Network Capacity Planning? How to Measure & Plan
Network capacity refers to the total amount of data that can be transmitted over a network at any given time. It is usually measured in terms of bandwidth, which is the volume of data per second that can be handled by the network. Various factors, including the physical hardware, the quality of network connections, and the protocols in use influence this capacity. In the context of organizations that depend heavily on digital communications and data transfer, understanding and effectively managing network capacity is vital for maintaining optimal operational efficiency.