Hardware terms

Host : This is a computer that acts as a server for other computers on a network. It can be a Web server, an e-mail server, an FTP server, etc.  A host is also known as the mother computer.

Hub : This is a hardware device that is used to network multiple computers together. It is a central connection for all the computers in a network, which is usually Ethernet-based. Information sent to the hub can flow to any other computer on the network.

MAC Address: MAC (Media Access Control) address is a hardware identification number that uniquely identifies each device on a network. The MAC address is manufactured into every network card, such as an Ethernet card or Wi-Fi card, and therefore cannot be changed.

Modem : The word modem is actually short for Modulator/Demodulator.  A modem is a communications device that can be either internal or external to your computer. It allows one computer to connect another computer and transfer data over telephone lines.

Router : This is a hardware device that routes data from a local area network (LAN) to another network connection

RFID: Stands for "Radio-Frequency Identification." RFID is a system used to track objects, people, or animals using tags that respond to radio waves. RFID tags are integrated circuits that include a small antenna.

Switch : A switch is used to network multiple computers together. Switches made for the consumer market are typically small, flat boxes with 4 to 8 Ethernet ports. These ports can connect to computers, cable or DSL modems, and other switches. High-end switches can have more than 50 ports and often are rack mounted. Switches are more advanced than hubs and less capable than routers.