- Put simply, a switch is a device the connects multiple computers into a network. All of the computers and other devices (such as printers, hubs or even other switches) are made a part of a local area network, or a LAN.
- Network switches operate on the same basic method as network hubs, but switches are "smarter." Switches have the ability to inspect packets of information sent on the network, and to properly route them to their destination based on the sender and the recipient address. Switches also save on bandwidth, since they are able to make more intelligent decisions than a simple network hub would be able to.
- Different models of network switches can support different numbers of connected devices, which include computers, printers, other switches or routers. The normal arrangement for a network switch, however, is to provide either four or eight connections for network devices. There is a method referred to as "daisy chaining" where multiple switches are connected to a single network, expanding its size with each new switch.
- The most common use for local area networks that use switches is for purposes of video gaming in a large group. Joining multiple computers together, each of which supports the software of a video game, can allow for multiple players. This is particularly common for first person shooters like Quake III Arena or Counter Strike. Often these events are referred to as LAN parties.
- While a network switch is not as sophisticated as even a simple router, it is a step up from a network hub in both intelligence and connectivity. It's because of these reasons that many people with simple needs for their network, such as the aforementioned video games, will pay the money for a switch instead of a hub for the additional benefits. These same people will not pay the money for a router, which would be more powerful and efficient, but would perhaps offer more than they need.
