Modern networks support a wide array of devices beyond computers and servers. In this episode, we look at how VoIP phones, network printers, HVAC controls, and other connected endpoints behave on the network. You’ll learn how these devices obtain IP addresses, how they interact with services like DNS and DHCP, and how they are typically segmented using VLANs for security and manageability. Each device type has unique behavior that must be considered when troubleshooting or designing a network.

We also explore the implications of firmware updates, default passwords, and unsupported protocols often used by these devices. Because these endpoints can be overlooked, they are frequent targets for security threats and performance issues. This episode helps you identify and manage the non-traditional devices that increasingly occupy IP space and network resources.