How to Choose a Computer Network Hub

A hub connects computers and other devices on a local area client/server network. A cable connects the network cards on each device to one of the ports on the hub. Ethernet is the most common local area networking system (cables, network cards, and data transfer software that all work together).

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 10/100 Or 100 Mbps PCI Ethernet Cards
• Ethernet Hub

1. Get a hub that is the same speed as your network cards (10 Mbps for Ethernet or 100 Mbps for fast Ethernet) or a dual speed (10/100 Mbps) hub.

2. Decide how many ports you need: one for each computer or other device to be connected now and in the future.

3. Choose between a passive hub and an intelligent hub (also called a manageable hub). Expect to pay more for more speed and versatility.

4. Find out what technical support the manufacturer offers.

Tips & Warnings

• Kits with a hub, two Ethernet cards, and cable are available.
• Hubs have a minimum of four or five ports.
• A passive hub merely allows interconnectivity. An intelligent hub allows you to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot each port using software that comes with it. You can use passive hubs in conjunction with intelligent hubs.
• Besides Ethernet, other networking systems include Token Ring and FDDI.
• The simplest kind of Windows computer network, a peer-to-peer network, doesn't require a hub.

on 11/22/2005 If you don't want the expence of buying cable and are networking sevral divices you should consider making youre own cables. Kits are avaible at Compusa for $30 and cable costs onley about $0.15 a foot when bought at Home Depo. I did this and saved a bundle of money, buying cables can cost $7 for a 3 foot cable!

on 11/22/2005 Simply purchase a "crossover cable," available at most computer stores. It looks just like a regular Ethernet cable, except the wires cross inside, so it works like a hub for two computers only. Just plug the two ends directly into the network cards.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure to buy patch cables that are longer than you need; you might find that after buying a new fish tank or TV or something, that you want to move your PC. It would help if you had enough cable to do that.

on 11/22/2005 Purchase a networking kit from Linksys. Everything you need to link 2 (can hold 5 total)desktop machines. Only costs approx $65. You'll be playing games head to head and sharing files in minutes. Very easy install.