Difference Between Hub and Switch

Switches and hubs are two frequent networking terminology. However, many are confused about whether these terms have any connection. This article will examine the distinction between a hub and a switch.

Before discussing the difference between hub and switch, let's define network devices in computer networks. So, what is a network device exactly? A network device is a device that links fax machines, printers, and other electronic devices to the network in a computer network. Using network devices, you can send data rapidly, securely, and correctly across several networks.

What is a Hub?

You may be curious about what a hub is and what roles it serves. Let's investigate further to discover the answers to these two queries.

A hub is a network device in a computer network where data from several routes converge before being delivered to other devices.

A hub is a device that enables several computers/PCs and other devices to connect to a single network.

A hub transmits data packets to all network devices, regardless of whether the data packets include MAC addresses. A machine that wants to join the network connects to one of the hub's numerous ports. When a data frame arrives at a port, regardless of its intended destination, the hub broadcasts it to all other ports.

There are 2 types of hubs:

• Active hub: This hub has its power source and can clean, enhance, and relay network signals.
• Passive hub: This hub receives electricity from active hub devices. A hub transmits signals into the network without cleaning or amplifying them.

Features:

• It operates inside a physical layer.
• The hub comes after broadcast transmission.

Advantages:

• Connectivity - The primary purpose of the hub is to let clients connect to a network so they may exchange and communicate. To do this, hubs use network protocol analyzers.
• Performance - Hub is recognised for having minimal performance effects on the network. Typically, this is because it uses a broadcast paradigm that seldom impacts the network.
• Cost – Compared to switches, hubs are quite affordable. Essentially because of its type of simplicity. Therefore, they will help you save a great deal of money. In addition, their items are extensively accessible in the marketplace.

Disadvantages:

• Specification - Hubs cannot handle massive networks such as token rings. This is typically the case since hubs must exchange data with all network devices.
• Network Traffic – As the attachment was received in the packet, it cannot minimize network traffic. Therefore, hubs generate substantial network traffic.
• Bandwidth Wastage - Hubs cannot offer dedicated bandwidth for every device, since they are designed to share. Both computers' bandwidths will be used when delivering significant amounts of data, leaving other computers with a sluggish network.

What is a Switch?

A switch is a network device that enables connection formation and termination based on the requirements. The switch operates at the Data connection layer. Packet filtering is supported in this system. This form of whole duplex transmission method is sometimes called an efficient bridge.

Features:

• A switch facilitates the management of network data flow.
• A switch is used to physically link computer network components.
• A switch may deliver data in either half-duplex or full-duplex mode to any device.

Advantages:

• Increases Capability - They increase the organization's available data transmission capacity.
• Reduces Strain - They assist in reducing the burden on individual host PCs.
• Presentation Enhancement - They enhance the organization's presentation.

Disadvantages:

• Expensive - They are more expensive than network spans.
• Tough Availability issues—Network availability problems are difficult to track via the organization's switch.
• Problems with traffic broadcasting—Traffic broadcasting may be challenging.

Hub vs Switch

Conclusion

Finally, we have come to the end of this detailed comparison between Hub vs. Switch. We hope you like this tutorial. We have started with a brief introduction to Hub and Switch. We also explored the advantages, disadvantages, and features of Hub vs. Switch. Finally, we have compared Hub vs. Switch.

Please let us know in the comment box if you have difficulty following along. Happy learning!

Related Questions

1. What is L1 L2 L3 L4 on a switch?

There are various labelling schemes but L1, L2, L3, L4 is common. In one position L1 connects to L3, L2 connects to L4. In the other position L1 connects to L4, L2 connects to L3. Used where three or more switches control the same lighting.

2. Does hub only have 2 ports?

The hub has four to twelve ports. A switch may have between 24 and 48 ports.

3. Is hub a Layer 2 or 3?

Hubs are layer 1 devices that lack intelligence and do not partition collision or broadcast domains. Switches are essentially layer 2 (MAC addresses) plus intelligence and collision domain separation. Some switches are capable of layer 3 capability with extra capabilities.

4. What is L2 & L3 switch?

Often referred to as an L2/L3 device or multi-layer switch (L2 = Ethernet and L3 = IP). A L3 switch is essentially a mix of an Ethernet switch and an IP router.