The type of network at your home is typically one of the following or a combination of them:
- Wired Network: Devices are connected via Ethernet cables to a broadband router. This provides a fast and reliable connection, ideal for devices near the router such as desktop PCs or streaming media players
- Wireless Network (Wi-Fi): Devices connect wirelessly using radio signals to a wireless router or access point. This allows mobility within the home for devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The common Wi-Fi standards in home networks include 802.11n and 802.11ac, with dual-band routers operating on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
- Powerline Network: Uses the home's electrical wiring to transmit network data, useful where Wi-Fi or Ethernet cabling is difficult
Most home networks today are hybrid networks , combining wired and wireless connections to balance speed, reliability, and convenience
. Key devices in a home network include:
- Modem: Connects your home network to the internet via your ISP.
- Router: Directs traffic within your network and to the internet, often integrating wireless access points.
- Switch: Expands the number of wired connections.
- Wireless Access Point: Extends Wi-Fi coverage
In summary, your home network is likely a local area network (LAN) combining wired Ethernet connections and wireless Wi-Fi connections, managed by a router connected to a modem for internet access
