|  |  | Summary

The purpose of this chapter was to introduce you to basic LAN devices and data flow, so you can begin thinking about building LANs. Now that you have completed this chapter, you should have a firm understanding of the:

- LAN devices, such as routers, switches and hubs

- evolution of networking devices

- basics of data flow

- basics related to building LANs

In the next chapter, you will learn about electronics and signals as they relate to the Layer 1of the OSI model. By understanding how signals operate at Layer 1, you will begin to understand how data is transmitted through a network. In addition, this will prepare you in your effort to design, build and troubleshoot networks.