Final answer:
The network medium refers to the physical transmission media used in a network, while hardware refers to the physical devices used to communicate within the network. Network topology is the arrangement of devices and their connections. Maximum speed, bandwidth, and cable lengths are determined by hardware and network medium.
Step-by-step explanation:
Network Medium:
The network medium refers to the physical transmission media that are used to carry data in a network. This can include copper cables (such as Ethernet cables), fiber optic cables, or wireless transmission.
Hardware:
Hardware in a network refers to the physical devices that are used to connect and communicate within the network. Examples of network hardware include routers, switches, hubs, and network interface cards.
Topology:
Network topology refers to the arrangement or layout of devices and their connections in a network. Common network topologies include bus, star, ring, mesh, and hybrid topologies.
Max Speed, Bandwidth, and Cable Lengths:
The maximum speed of a network is determined by the capabilities of the network hardware and the network medium being used. Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given time period. Cable lengths vary depending on the type of network medium being used. For example, Ethernet cables can typically support cable lengths of up to 100 meters.