Transcript A Big Test Result - Knowledge Systems Institute

Introduction to
Computer Networks
Working with Device Drivers
and NICs
This lesson we examine the role of network
interface cards (NICs) and how they are
installed.
The Role of Drivers
• A driver (sometimes called a device driver) is
software that enables a computer to work with a
particular device.
• Although a device might be installed on a computer,
the computer's operating system cannot
communicate with the device until the driver for
that device has been installed and configured.
• It is the software driver that tells the computer
how to work with the device so that the device can
perform its job.
The Network Environment
• Network drivers provide communication between a
NIC and the network redirector running in the
computer.
• Drivers and the OSI Reference Model:
• NIC drivers reside
in the Media
Access Control
sublayer of the
data-link layer of
the OSI Reference
Model.
Drivers and Networking Software
• It is common for the NIC manufacturer to provide
drivers to the networking software vendor so that
the drivers can be included with the network
operating software.
• The operating system manufacturer's hardware
compatibility list (HCL) lists the drivers they have
tested and included with the operating system.
• Even if the driver for a particular card has not
been included with the network operating system,
it is common for the NIC manufacturer to include
drivers for most popular network operating
systems on a disk that is shipped with the card.
Installing NICs
• Before purchasing NICs, it's helpful to keep several
important points in mind.
• Type of Expansion Slot: ISA, EISA, Micro Channel,
and/or PCI buses.
• Type of Card: NICs are specified by network type.
• Network Speed: When designing your network, be
sure to keep future networking needs in mind.
• Media Connection: There is a variety of media from
which to choose.
Installing a NIC
• network cards with diagnostic lights built in can be
a good investment.
• Typically, a green
light indicates that a
proper connection
exists between the
card and the media.
A flashing yellow
light usually
indicates that the
card is processing
data.