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hub vs switch vs router

6 Important Network Devices – Exclusive Details

6 Important Network Devices – Exclusive Details

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Network devices are physical devices required for communication and interaction between hardware on a computer network. They work as a group and have a single purpose: to securely transfer data as fast as possible. Several network devices, such as repeaters, bridges, hubs, switches, and routers, are used to meet this goal.

Hub

Hub is one of the basic network devices that works at the physical layer and hence connects networking devices physically together. It is not used in modern networks. In networking, it is just studied because it is helpful to understand switches. If somebody understands it, then he can easily understand a switch.

A hub is a device that simply copies data received on any port to all its ports. So, if a packet of data arrives on interface 1 of a 5-port hub, it will blindly copy that data out to interfaces 2 through 5. The hub is a common connection point for network devices in a network. Different segments of LAN are commonly connected to it. It was a cheap and quick way to link up multiple computers in the early days.

The hub utilizes Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detect (CSMA/CD) to control Media access. The Ethernet hub communicates in a half-duplex mode, where data collisions are inevitable. The main issue with hubs is that only one computer can talk at a time.

So, if 2nd computers are going to talk at the same time, their traffic will join as it echoes out the other interfaces. This is called a collision, and it would corrupt the data being transmitted by both computers. So, each computer would have to try again after a random period. This becomes a real problem when the network gets busy or when more than a handful of computers are on a network. A switch solves the collision issue. Hub is a single broadcast and single collision domain. It has two types:-

Passive Hub

They Just point contact for the wires to be built into the physical network. They have nothing to do with modifying the signals.

Active Hub

Active hubs are smarter than passive hubs. They regenerate, concentrate, and strengthen the original signals before sending them to their destinations. Active hubs are also termed ‘repeaters’.

Repeater

A repeater is an electronic device that operates at the physical layer. It has two Ethernet ports. The repeater amplifies the received signal and retransmits it in the same network before it becomes too weak or corrupted, extending the length to which the signal can be transmitted over the same network. When the signal weakens, the repeater copies it bit by bit and regenerates it at its original strength.

Bridge

If a router connects two different types of networks, then a bridge connects two sub-networks as part of the same network. Bridges’ essential role in network architecture is storing and forwarding frames between the different segments that they connect.

Bridgeworks are at the Physical and Data Link Layer of the OSI Model. They connect different networks and develop communication between them. They connect two local-area networks, two physical LANs, into larger logical LANs or two segments of the same LAN that use the same protocol.

We can also use the bridge to divide larger networks into smaller sections by sitting between two physical network segments, managing the data flow, and reducing the broadcast between them.

Bridge uses MAC addresses for transferring frames. Bridges can forward the data or block it from crossing by looking at the MAC address of the devices connected to each segment. Bridges can also connect two physical LANs into a larger logical LAN. There are three main types of bridges:-

Transparent Bridge

A transparent bridge maintains a list of MAC addresses and appears transparently to other network devices. The other devices are ignorant of its existence. It only blocks or forwards data according to the MAC address. Transparent bridges also save and maintain the source-route addresses of incoming frames by listening to all the connected bridges and hosts. They use a transparent bridging algorithm to accomplish this.

Source Route Bridge

A form of routing is used to establish connections between pairs of nodes on different token rings. The source route bridge uses the path the packet takes through the network and is implanted within the packet.

Translational Bridge

Translational bridges reorder source and destination address bits when translating between Ethernet and Token Ring frame formats. They convert the data format of one networking system to another.

network devices

Switch

An Ethernet Switch is a device used to connect multiple computers and network devices within a LAN. It works at the OSI model’s Layer Two (Data Link Layer). Some switches also work at Layer 3( Network Layer). These switches are referred to as Layer 3 switches or multilayered switches.

The Basic Function of a Network Ethernet Switch and a Network Ethernet Hub is the same: forwarding Layer 2 packets (Ethernet frames) from the source device to the destination device. But a Network switch is more intelligent than a hub. An Ethernet switch uses MAC addresses to make forwarding decisions. It does not know about the protocol in the data portion, such as an IPv4 packet. The switch makes forwarding decisions based only on the Layer 2 Ethernet MAC addresses.

Unlike an Ethernet hub that repeats bits from all ports except the incoming port, an Ethernet switch consults a MAC address table to make a forwarding decision for each frame. The MAC address table is sometimes called a content addressable memory (CAM) table. Network switches for different input and output bandwidths are available. Today’s Ethernet Network Switches can have bandwidths of 10, 100, 1000, or 10,000 Megabits per second.

Switch Features and Advantages

  • Connect network devices in a Local Area Network (LAN).
  • It learns Layer 2 (MAC) addresses and forwards Layer 2 packets (Ethernet frames); to the exact destination with the help of the device’s MAC address.
  • It’s control of who has access to various parts of the network.
  • Provision to monitor network usage.
  • High-end switches have pluggable modules.
  • Allows to connect multiple devices and port can be managed VLAN can create security also can apply
  • First broadcast; then unicast & multicast as needed.
  • Switches use content-accessible memory CAM table, typically accessed by ASIC (Application Specific integrated chips).
  • Half/Full duplex
  • Connecting two or more nodes in the same network or a different network
  • The switch has one broadcast domain [unless VLAN is implemented]

Router

The router is a network device that selects the best path for a data packet. It is located at any gateway (where one network meets another). It forwards data packets from one network to another based on the address of the destination network in the incoming packet and an internal routing table. It also determines which port (line) to send the packet (ports typically connect to Ethernet cables).

Routers also require packets formatted in a routable protocol, the global standard being TCP/IP, or simply “IP.” Routers operate at Layer 3 (network layer) of the OSI model, and they use the destination IP address in a data packet to determine where to forward the packet. The router stores the IP address in a Routing table and maintains an address on its own.

Gateway

Gateways usually work at the Transport layer and Session layer of the OSI model. It connects two networks that may work on different networking models. Gateway takes data from one system, interprets it, and transfers it to another. It is also a protocol converter and can operate at any network layer. Gateways are generally more complex than switches or routers. Gateway deals with numerous protocols and standards from different vendors. It performs all of the functions of routers. A router with added translation functionality is a gateway.

Network

Switch vs Hub – Comparison

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In the previous article, I presented the Switch vs Router comparison. In this article, I am going to compare Switch vs Hub. Hus is another important device in networking. The earlier hub was used in place of the Switch. We can connect one or more computers, networked devices, or even other networks using a hub and switch. Each has two or more ports into which we can plug in the cables to make the connection. There are some differences between a switch and a hub.  People misuse the term hub, so let’s clarify what each means. In this article, I just compare both switch and hub.

Switch vs Hub

  • Hub is working on Layer 1 ( physical layer), and Switch is working on a Datalink Layer and Network Layer. Switch is working on Layer 3, also known as multi-layer Switch.
  • A hub is generally used to connect a personal computer network, but we can connect multiple devices using a switch. We can manage the switch’s ports and apply port security and bandwidth management. We can also create VLANs on a switch, which is impossible on the hub.
  • The hub sends data in bits or electrical signals and then sends data in the shape of a frame ( Layer2 Switch) or Frame & Packet ( Layer3 Switch).
  • Both switch and hub are available in a different number of ports. Additionally, the switch is also available in a modular ship and soft switch.
  • Hubs always flood data to all ports, but the switch performs the first-time broadcast, then multicast, and finally, when storing all MAC addresses in the MAC table, data is sent using the unicast technique.
  • Hub is a passive device without any software but the switch is an active device using software with a networking device.
  • Hus is using only LAN but the switch is available everywhere in LAN, WAN, and MAN.
  • The switch can learn and store MAC addresses but the hub can’t learn and store MAC addresses.
  • The switch can transmit data in the full-duplex mode as well as in half-duplex mode but the hub can only transmit data in half-duplex mode.
  • Hub has a single broadcast domain. The switch is also a single broadcast domain unless we create a VLAN on the switch.
  • Hub is a single collision domain but switch each port is its own collision domain.
  • The switch can run many spanning-tree protocols but the hub is working without spanning-tree protocol.
  • Hubs are available only at 10Mbps and switches are available at 10/100/1000 Mbps.
  • Hub and switch both use MAC addresses for data transmission.

FAQs

1. What’s the key difference between a switch and a hub?

  • The primary difference is that a hub operates at the physical layer (Layer 1) while a switch operates at the data link and network layers (Layer 2 and Layer 3).

2. Can you explain the functional distinction between a switch and a hub?

  • Certainly. A hub is a simple device used to connect personal computer networks, sending data as electrical signals. On the other hand, a switch is a more advanced device capable of connecting multiple devices, managing ports, applying security, and creating VLANs in addition to forwarding data in frames or packets.

3. What advantages does a switch offer over a hub in a network setup?

  • A switch provides several advantages over a hub. It allows for port management, security features, bandwidth control, and the creation of VLANs, which a hub cannot do. Additionally, a switch can transmit data in full-duplex mode, while a hub can only operate in half-duplex mode.

4. What are the key features of a hub and a switch in terms of network domains?

  • A hub has a single broadcast domain and a single collision domain. In contrast, a switch typically has a single broadcast domain, which can be divided into multiple VLANs, and each port acts as its own collision domain.

5. Can you clarify the role of MAC addresses in switches and hubs?

  • Both switches and hubs use MAC addresses for data transmission. However, a switch can learn and store MAC addresses to make more efficient data forwarding decisions, while a hub cannot.

6. In which types of networks are hubs and switches commonly used?

  • Hubs are predominantly used in LANs, while switches are versatile and found in LANs, WANs, and MANs. Switches offer greater adaptability for various network types.

7. How do hubs and switches differ in terms of data transmission modes?

  • Hubs can only transmit data in half-duplex mode, meaning they can send or receive data, but not both simultaneously. Switches, on the other hand, can transmit data in both full-duplex and half-duplex modes, allowing for more efficient data communication.

8. Do hubs and switches have any similarities?

  • Yes, both hubs and switches use MAC addresses for data transmission. They also come in various configurations with different numbers of ports, and switches may even have modular and soft switch options.

9. What is the role of spanning-tree protocols in switches and hubs?

  • Hubs do not use spanning-tree protocols, but switches can run multiple spanning-tree protocols to prevent loops in the network and ensure efficient data forwarding.

10. Are there any speed differences between hubs and switches?

  • Yes, hubs are typically available only at 10Mbps, while switches come in various speed options, including 10/100/1000 Mbps, providing greater flexibility and performance in network setups.
Comparing Switch and Router: A Comprehensive Guide

Comparing Switch and Router: A Comprehensive Guide

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Switch and Router comparison is most important because both are the backbone devices in computer networking. So here I am giving a comparison between a Switch and vs Router for the student of networking. If somebody understands the switch vs router comparison, he can manage a network easily.

Definition of Router

A network device that forwards data packets from one network to another. Based on the address of the destination network in the incoming packet and an internal routing table; the router determines which port (line) to send out the packet (ports typically connect to Ethernet cables). Routers require packets formatted in a routable protocol, the global standard being TCP/IP, or simply “IP.”

Definition of Switch

A switch is a networking device that is used to connect many devices together on a computer network. A switch is working in a single network. it also connects multiple devices. The port of the switch can be managed.

Switch vs Router

Comparison of Switch vs Router

  • Router work in layer 3 and switch available for both layer2 and layer3
  • The router transmits data in the shape of a Packet but the switch transmits data both in frame and packets
  • The transmission type of the router at the Initial Level is Broadcast then Unicast and multicast but the switch, first broadcast then unicast & multicast as needed.
  • Routers are available in different ports and we can also add ports as needed. The Switch is a multi-port Bridge. 8/16/24/48 ports and available in modular form
  • The router can be used in LAN and WAN, and the Switch is mostly used for LAN
  • Routers store IP addresses in the Routing table and keep up the address on their own but Switches use a content-accessible memory CAM table which is typically accessed by ASIC (application-specific integrated chips).
  • The router is full-duplex and the switch is working on both have and full-duplex
  • In Router, every port has its own Broadcast domain but the switch has a single broadcast domain [unless VLAN is implemented] and each port has its own collision domain.
  • The router can connect two or more networks, but the switch can connect two or more nodes in the same network.
  • Switch vs Router both are intelligent devices
  • Router bandwidth sharing is Dynamic (Enables either static or dynamic bandwidth sharing for modular cable interfaces. The default percent value is 0. The percent value range is 1-96.) but the switch made sharing according to ports that can be 10; 100, 1000 and 10000 Mbps.
  • Both speeds are 10/100/1000 Mbps
  • The router can make faster routing decisions but the switch takes more time for complicated routing decisions.
  • The Routers can do NAT but the switch can’t
  • In a different network environment, a router is faster than an L3 switch.
  • Examples of Router as Linksys WRT54GL Juniper MX & EX series Cisco 3900, 2900, 1900, and the Example of Switches as – Alcatel’s OmniSwitch 9000; Cisco Catalyst switch 4500 and 6500 (10 Gbps)
  • The router Uses an IP address and the switch uses a MAC address

FAQs

1. What’s the heart of the network: Router or Switch?

  • Well, both the router and switch are like the backbone of a network. The router works its magic by forwarding data packets between different networks, deciding the best path. In contrast, the switch connects multiple devices within a single network, making it a local champion.

2. How do they handle data transmission?

  • The router sends data in the form of packets, ensuring they find their way to the right destination. Meanwhile, the switch is a multitasker, transmitting both frames and packets, adapting to the network’s needs.

3. What’s the sequence of data transmission?

  • When routers start the show, it’s with a broadcast, followed by unicast and multicast transmissions. On the other hand, switches lead with broadcasting too, then adapt to unicast and multicast as required.

4. Ports and versatility – who wins?

  • Routers offer flexibility with different ports, and you can even add more as needed. Switches are no slouch either, coming in various sizes, like 8, 16, 24, or 48 ports. You can even go modular if you want!

5. Where do they typically hang out?

  • Routers have a broader social circle, mingling in both LAN and WAN environments. But the switch? It’s often found in LAN, where it thrives at connecting devices within the same network.

6. What’s their memory game like?

  • Routers memorize IP addresses in their routing table, keeping them close to heart. Switches, on the other hand, rely on their content-accessible memory (CAM) table, accessible through their trusty ASIC chips.

7. Are they in sync with the network’s rhythm?

  • Routers are all about full-duplex communication, while switches are a bit more versatile, working with both half and full-duplex modes. They adapt to the network’s needs like seasoned dancers.

8. What about broadcast and collision domains?

  • Routers give each port its own broadcast domain, keeping things neat and organized. But switches? They usually stick to a single broadcast domain, unless they’re partying with VLANs. Each port on a switch has its own collision domain, ensuring smooth communication.

9. Speed and decision-making: Routers vs. Switches

  • Routers take the lead in making snappy routing decisions. They’re the fast thinkers of the networking world. In contrast, switches might need a bit more time for intricate routing choices.

10. NAT, the Network Sorcery

  • Routers are the wizards that can perform Network Address Translation (NAT), while switches, unfortunately, can’t conjure up this magical trick.

11. Who’s the speed demon? Router or L3 switch?

  • In different network environments, the router usually takes the speed crown over an L3 switch, making it the racing car of networking devices.

12. Who’s who in the world of Routers and Switches?

  • When you think of routers, you might picture Linksys WRT54GL, Juniper MX & EX series, and Cisco 3900, 2900, and 1900. Switches, on the other hand, bring Alcatel’s OmniSwitch 9000, and the almighty Cisco Catalyst switch 4500 and 6500 (with 10 Gbps) to the networking party.

13. IP or MAC: The Address Game

  • Routers are all about IP addresses, while switches are loyal to MAC addresses. They use these addresses to navigate the networking terrain.