Besides a physical medium, a network operation needs devices that are designed to handle certain network functions. The devices are often called networking devices or equipment and specifically referred to as network components in this guide. Each network component has a name that is related to its functions. For example, a network adapter works to "adapt" a computer message that is going to be sent to a network, to a format that is defined by the network.
A network component's functions may also be performed by a software application. For example, Windows XP provides built-in support for Network Bridging that handle a bridge's functions in a home network with mixed media. There are also built-in or add-on software applications that handle modem, router, or gateway functions. However, the software-only alternative is mostly suitable for small networks.
