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Learn more about Network Security & Firewalls

Switches, routers, and wireless access points

Switches, routers, and wireless access points perform very different functions in a network.

A computer network, or data network, is a digital telecommunications network which allows nodes to share resources. In computer networks, computing devices exchange data with each other using connections (data links) between nodes These data links are established over cable media such as wires or optic cables, or wireless media such as WiFi.

Switches

Switches are the foundation of most business networks. A switch acts as a controller, connecting computers, printers, and servers to a network in a building or a campus.

Switches allow devices on your network to communicate with each other, as well as with other networks, creating a network of shared resources. Through information sharing and resource allocation, switches save money and increase productivity.

There are two basic types of switches to choose from as part of your networking basics: managed and unmanaged.

An unmanaged switch works out of the box but can't be configured. Home-networking equipment typically offers unmanaged switches.
A managed switch can be configured. You can monitor and adjust a managed switch locally or remotely, giving you greater control over network traffic and access.

Routers

Routers connect multiple networks together. They also connect computers on those networks to the Internet. Routers enable all networked computers to share a single Internet connection, which saves money.

A router acts a dispatcher. It analyzes data being sent across a network, chooses the best route for data to travel, and sends it on its way.

Routers connect your business to the world, protect information from security threats, and can even decide which computers receive priority over others.

Beyond those basic networking functions, routers come with additional features to make networking easier or more secure. Depending on your needs, for example, you can choose a router with a firewall, a virtual private network (VPN), or an Internet Protocol (IP) communications system.

Access points

An access point* allows devices to connect to the wireless network without cables. A wireless network makes it easy to bring new devices online and provides flexible support to mobile workers.

An access point acts like an amplifier for your network. While a router provides the bandwidth, an access point extends that bandwidth so that the network can support many devices, and those devices can access the network from farther away.

But an access point does more than simply extend Wi-Fi. It can also give useful data about the devices on the network, provide proactive security, and serve many other practical purposes.

*Access points support different IEEE standards. Each standard is an amendment that was ratified over time. The standards operate on varying frequencies, deliver different bandwidth, and support different numbers of channels.

Wireless networking

Wireless networking is a method by which homes, telecommunications networks and business installations avoid the costly process of introducing cables into a building, or as a connection between various equipment locations.

Firewall

And possibly the most important aspect of networking is security and Firewall!

What is a Firewall?
A firewall is a network security device that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic and decides whether to allow or block specific traffic based on a defined set of security rules.

Firewalls have been a first line of defense in network security for over 25 years. They establish a barrier between secured and controlled internal networks that can be trusted and untrusted outside networks, such as the Internet.

A firewall can be hardware, software, or both.

CompSource will educate and help make this process enjoyable and easy.

Whether you're planning on using your network for basic home tasks or enterprise level security. You can tell our trained sales professionals your needs, and weÃ¯Â¿Â½ll make custom recommendations to suit your specifications and budget. Our reps have extensive knowledge and love to share. We educate, not sell, CompSource makes sure you buy what you need and not waste money on what you don't. As with every decision we never push, it's up to you when, and if you make a purchase.

CompSource has a great technical staff that can help with a solution for your exact needs.

Chat with us or give our professionals a quick phone call (800)-413-7361.