Computer hardware and networking are essential elements of a computing system, providing faster problem-solving, easier file sharing, increased storage capacity and cost reduction.

Computer hardware comprises both external and internal devices that make up its entirety, including devices that create networks through hubs and routers.

Input devices

An input device refers to any piece of hardware which allows users to input information into a computer, including keyboards, mice and scanners.

Computers cannot run without input devices such as the keyboard and mouse; these vital input devices allow us to add information such as text, commands, documents or images into the machine. They’re used for inputting new text, commands, documents or images that come through our screens – such as texts or commands sent from outside our computers – including images that we take or take of ourselves for work or play. The most prevalent examples include wired and wireless options available.

Keyboards utilize an array of keys to provide users with various functions, such as arrow keys, function keys and command buttons. In addition to providing these services to the user, keyboards also contain standard QWERTY keyset that allows for entering letters, numbers and special characters. Mice and other pointing devices (such as laptop touchpads) are considered input devices as are heat sensors or orientation sensors as well as mechanical OMR cards and punch cards as well as digital scanners and monitors.

Network interface cards (NICs)

Network Interface Cards (NICs) connect your computer to other parts of a network and allow for sharing of resources, internet connections and data resulting in faster problem-solving times and increased storage capacities. They come both wired and wireless versions.

NICs are commonly implemented as expansion cards that plug directly into a computer’s bus slots; however, some NICs may also be built directly into motherboard chipsets of some computers and network servers.

Typical features of network interface cards (NICs) include an Ethernet port for connecting to cable-based wired networks, an integrated LED to indicate connection and activity status, and a chipset containing circuits for encapsulating and transmitting data packets across networks. They’re rated for their transmission speeds – typically anywhere from 10Mbps up to 1 Gbps – as well as interface type such as Wi-Fi or USB support, making them suitable for desktop or laptop computer installations.

Modems

A modem is an electronic device that enables your computer to communicate with other computers on a network. Its name comes from “modulator-demodulator,” as this device converts digital information into analog signals that can be transmitted over telephone lines and cables, before changing back into their original digital form for your computer to understand.

Early modems were initially used for dial-up internet service before being superseded by broadband connections like DSL. There are various types of modems, including external devices and internal expansion cards; selecting one will depend on your unique requirements.

A standard 103A dial-up modem transmits its data over the telephone line in packets containing eight bits, the minimum required to transmit one character. You may hear this asynchronous transmission as a series of squealing noises and tones over your telephone connection. By contrast, modern broadband modems offer continuous data streams known as synchronous transmission that are much smoother in their operation.

Routers

Routers are networking devices used to transfer data between networks. They manage the traffic flow for billions of devices that use various transmission protocols – acting like traffic cops of the internet to ensure communication packages reach their destinations on time.

Routers connect home computer networks with the Internet via modems or gateways, connecting other computers in work environments as well as wireless networks. Gateways function both as modems and routers while wireless routers are designed for small offices or homes.

Computer hardware and networking both play an essential role in system performance, with their quality having a direct effect on overall efficiency. Knowledge of these components is vital for businesses and individuals looking to design computer systems tailored specifically to meet their needs and budgets. At TopS Technologies we offer courses to equip students with the skills needed for becoming networking technicians or support engineers.