Information about Network Repeaters

Network repeaters regenerate incoming electrical, wireless or optical signals to preserve signal integrity and extend the distance over which data can travel. With physical media such as Ethernet, data transmissions can travel only a limited distance before signal quality degrades. Consequently, network repeaters are often used to connect cable segments in IEEE 802.3 networks, a standard developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) for Ethernet-based local area networks (LAN). In terms of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, network repeaters are physical layer devices. Most high-level devices such as switches and routers do not incorporate the functions of network repeaters. In wireless LAN (WLAN) or Wi-Fi networks, access points serve as repeaters only when operating in repeater mode. Some network repeaters are stand-alone and enclosed. Others are integrated circuit (IC) chips or printed circuit boards (PCBs). Stackable, rack-mounted, hardened, full-duplex and wireless devices are also available.

Products & Services Related to Network Repeaters

Network Firewalls

Network firewalls are systems that enforce access control policy between an organization's network and the Internet for security purposes.

Network Gateways

Network gateways interconnect networks with different, incompatible communication protocols.

Network Hubs

Network hubs serve as the central location for attaching wires to workstations.

Network Routers

Network routers are protocol-dependent devices that connect subnetworks. They are also used to break down a large network into smaller subnetworks.

Network Switches

Network switches route packets between ports at the OSI layer 2, which means that (in Ethernet) the switches decide where incoming packets are transferred to, based on the NIC's 48-bit address.

Network Transceivers

Network transceivers, short for transmitter-receiver, are devices that both transmit and receive analog or digital signals.

VoIP and IP Telephony

VoIP and IP telephony allows PC users to make phone calls over the Internet or other packet networks via gateways and standard telephones.