Difference Between a Network Hub & a Switch
A network hub and a switch are similar in that they can be used to expand the size and complexity of a computer network. They do not function the same, however, and those differences can affect how a network performs.
Other People Are Reading
-
OSI Model
-
A hub operates at Layer 1 of the OSI Model, which is the Physical layer, while a switch operates on Layer 2, which is the Data Link layer.
Packet Destination
-
When a hub receives a packet of data from a computer on the network, it will broadcast that data to all of its outgoing ports, effectively sending the data to all the PCs on its segment of the network. When a switch receives a packet of data, it reads the destination address on the packet and then sends the packet only to that destination.
-
Bandwidth
-
When using a hub, all computers on that segment of a network compete for bandwidth. A switch acts like a cross-over cable connection between computers so there is no competition for bandwidth on its segment of the network.
Duplex Mode
-
Hubs operate at half-duplex mode. Switches operate at full-duplex mode, making a switch the component that allows faster data transfer.
Cost
-
Hubs are generally lower in cost than switches.
-
