In this article we will discuss hubs and switches. A hub on a network is a device that functions as a connector for several network devices in the same connection segment, as reported by byjus.com. The main benefit of the hub is to expand the network circuit and allow devices on the network to communicate with each other. Technically, the Hub forwards data obtained from one port to various other ports. This means that any data sent by one device will be captured by all devices connected to the hub.
Although hubs are classified as relatively easy & affordable network devices, they still have a number of disadvantages. Among them is the limited bandwidth it has because all data must be passed through the same path.
Therefore, hubs are generally utilized in small networks such as household networks that require low cost and easy installation. Before entering further discussion, we have discussed information about network hardware in this article (please read it too): Network Devices.
Understanding What is a Switch in Networking
Meanwhile, in more complex circuits, switches are used instead of hubs because they have the ability to separate data traffic and provide greater bandwidth. However, what exactly is a switch?
Reporting from guru99.com, a switch is a device used to connect a number of network equipment in similar network segments. However, if we compare it with a hub, a switch has a more complex and sophisticated capacity in processing data traffic in a network network.
Switches are able to break down data traffic into parts and allow each piece of data to only flow to the port that matches its final destination. This makes it easier for the switch to optimize bandwidth usage so as to minimize data traffic conflicts.
Furthermore, switches are able to prioritize data traffic to ensure that data that is more important and requires higher bandwidth availability takes precedence.
In more complicated networks, switches are usually used instead of hubs because of their ability to differentiate data traffic and provide more bandwidth. Therefore, switches are widely used in large-scale networks such as offices or companies with a much larger number of network devices.
Hub and Switch Comparison Table
Differences
Function
Ways of Working
Bandwith
Security
Performance
Network Scale
Hub
Connecting multiple devices in one network segment
Sending data to all connected ports
Limited because all data must be passed through the same path
No security mechanism
Causes conflicts and data traffic congestion
Used for small or household networks
Switch
Connecting multiple devices in one network segment and processing data traffic
Separates data traffic and sends it to the destination port
Larger because each port has a separate bandwidth
Can have security features such as Virtual LAN (VLAN) and Access Control List (ACL)
Can optimize bandwidth usage and prioritize more important data traffic
Used for large-scale networks such as offices or companies
In conclusion, Switch is equipped with more complex capabilities than Hub with more efficient processing in managing data traffic in the network. However, both devices are still very important with their respective network scales. Hub and Switch also have an important role in network performance that needs to be monitored continuously.
One of the tools that can be used for network monitoring is Netmonk Prime. Netmonk is an all-in-one monitoring tool created by the nation’s children which has a myriad of benefits including in one dashboard consisting of three network monitoring modules, servers, and Web/API. Then, data reports can also be in the form of graphical displays in addition to standard report displays, making it easier for non-IT management to understand data about devices.
