what is the function of a hub, a router, a repeater and a gateway (as used in computer networking)?

Answer 1

HUB - An Ethernet hub or concentrator is a device for connecting multiple twisted pair or fiber optic Ethernet devices together, making them act as a single segment. Hubs work at the physical layer (layer 1) of the OSI model. The device is thus a form of multiport repeater. Ethernet hubs are also responsible for forwarding a jam signal to all ports
if it detects a collision.

ROUTER - A router is a computer networking device that buffers and forwards data packets across an internetwork toward their destinations, through a process known as routing. Routing occurs at layer 3 (the Network layer e.g. IP)
of the OSI seven-layer protocol stack.

REPEATER - A repeater is an electronic device that receives a weak or low-level signal and retransmits it at a higher level or higher power, so that the signal can cover
longer distances without degradation.The term "repeater" originated with telegraphy and referred to an electromechanical device used to regenerate telegraph signals. Use of the term has continued in telephony and data communications.

GATEWAY - Gateway (telecommunications), in telecommunications is a computer or a network that allows or controls access to another computer or network.
Gateway (computer networking), a node that serves as an entrance to another network, and vice-versa. The meaning of this term has altered subtly in recent years, however.
Gateway (web page), a webpage designed to attract visitors and search engines to a particular website.
Payment gateway, the software interface between a web-based shopping cart and a merchant account.
Gateway (computer program), a link between two computer programs allowing them to share information and bypass certain protocols on a host computer. Although seemingly harmless, a gateway can have tremendous negative effects on personal computers if not used properly.


Have a pleasant day.

Answer 2

Nuran I would be typing all day if I had to explain about hub, routers and repeater etc. Do a search on the net about it yourself.

Answer 3

Go to http://www.linksys.com/
Link Sys is a vendor of wireless networks. The site has a section called "learning center" that can answer network questions.

Also, go to other networking hardware vendor sites for additional information. Good Luck.