Understanding networking devices

Networking devices are intermediary devices that are used to build and extend a network to allow users to access and share resources. End devices such as computers and laptops are able to operate on their own and perform tasks as needed by the user. Computers are able to store data on their local storage devices, and users are able to physically transport data between devices using a USB storage device such as a USB flash drive or an external storage drive. This method of sharing data is suitable for a small organization with a few users, and not for larger organizations with hundreds and thousands of employees.

As an organization increases in size, network professionals are required to ensure each user is able to access and share resources over a network. Networks are built by professionals using various intermediary networking devices that accept a message from a sender device and determine the best suitable path to forward to its destination....