SOHO Hardware Basics
What is a SOHO router?
Definition: All-in-one device combining router, switch, and wireless access point.
Test Focus: Directs Internet traffic and assigns local IP addresses.
What is an SSID?
Definition: The name of a wireless network.
Test Focus: Users select the correct SSID to join a Wi-Fi.
What is a network printer?
Definition: A printer connected directly to the network.
Test Focus: Allows multiple users to print without a host PC.
What is a default gateway?
Definition: The address your network uses to reach the Internet.
Test Focus: Usually the router’s local IP address.
What is a built-in network switch used for in a SOHO router?
Definition: The section of a router that connects wired devices together.
Test Focus: Sends data only to the correct destination device.
What is WPA2 or WPA3 wireless security?
Definition: Encryption standards that protect wireless data.
Test Focus: WPA3 > WPA2 > WEP in strength; know which to choose.
What is a print server?
Definition: Manages print jobs and queues on a network.
Test Focus: Handles requests and distributes jobs efficiently.
What is a DHCP lease?
Definition: Temporary IP address assignment from a router.
Test Focus: Can be renewed or reserved for specific devices.
What is a modem in a home network setup?
Definition: Connects a SOHO network to the Internet service provider.
Test Focus: Converts signals between the ISP line and router.
What is a wireless channel?
Definition: Frequency range used by a Wi-Fi network.
Test Focus: Changing channels can fix interference issues.
What is IP address assignment for shared devices?
Definition: The address given to each printer or device.
Test Focus: Can be static (manual) or dynamic (DHCP).
What is port forwarding?
Definition: Sends incoming traffic to a specific internal device.
Test Focus: Needed for gaming servers, cameras, or remote access.
What is a wireless access point?
Definition: Creates the Wi-Fi network inside a SOHO router.
Test Focus: Bridges wired and wireless connections.
What is a dual-band router?
Definition: Router that transmits on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
Test Focus: Offers balance between range and speed.
What is cloud printing?
Definition: Printing through an online service rather than a direct cable.
Test Focus: Lets users print remotely from mobile devices.
What is Network Address Translation (NAT)?
Definition: Allows many devices to share one public IP address.
Test Focus: Built into SOHO routers to hide internal IPs.
What is a network interface card?
Definition: Hardware that lets a device connect to a network.
Test Focus: Can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).
What is Quality of Service (QoS) on a router?
Definition: Network setting that prioritizes certain traffic.
Test Focus: Used to improve performance for voice or video.
What is a USB sharing port on a router?
Definition: Router feature that shares USB storage or printers.
Test Focus: Converts local peripherals into network resources.
What is a firmware update on a router?
Definition: Installing new software on a router to fix bugs or add features.
Test Focus: Part of preventative maintenance and security.