THABO IS AN INTERN AT A COMPANY SPECIALISING IN COMPUTER NETWORKING SYSTEMS. HIS TEAM HAS BEEN GIVIN A NEW PROJECT TO PLAN AND IMPLEMENT THE LAN NETWORK FOR A TOP AUDITING FIRM . SAM, THHABOS MENTOR HAS REQUESTED THABO TO IDENTIFY ALL THE LAN COMPONENTS. ASSIST THABO TO IDENTIFY AND DESCRIBE THE PURPOSE OF LAN COMPONENTS.

1. Network Interface Card (NIC) - A NIC is a hardware component that enables a device to connect to a network. It is responsible for translating data from the computer into a format that can be transmitted over the network and vice versa.

2. Switch - A switch is a networking device that connects multiple devices within a LAN and routes data packets to their intended destination. It helps in managing the flow of data within the network by sending data only to the devices that need it.

3. Router - A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks together and routes data between them. It helps in determining the best path for data to travel through the network and enables communication between devices on different subnets.

4. Modem - A modem is a device that modulates and demodulates digital signals to enable communication over a telephone or cable line. It is used to connect a LAN to the internet or another wide area network.

5. Network cables - Network cables are used to physically connect devices within a LAN. Ethernet cables are commonly used to connect computers, printers, switches, and other devices to the network.

6. Wireless Access Points (WAP) - WAPs are hardware devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a wired LAN. They transmit and receive wireless signals to provide connectivity to devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

7. Network Firewall - A network firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It helps in protecting the LAN from unauthorized access and malicious threats.

8. Network Server - A network server is a high-powered computer that stores data, applications, and resources that can be shared with other devices on the LAN. It helps in centralizing network resources and managing network traffic efficiently.