Switch and Hub – Comparison
In my previous article, I compared Switches and Routers. Here, I’ll explore the differences between Switch and Hub, two foundational networking devices. While hubs were historically used to connect devices, modern networks rely on switches for efficiency and security. Let’s clarify their roles and distinctions.
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.
Switch and Hub: Key Differences
1. OSI Layer Operation
- Hub: Operates at Layer 1 (Physical Layer). It transmits data as raw electrical signals (bits) without processing.
- Switch: Operates at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) for MAC address-based forwarding. Advanced Layer 3 (Network Layer) switches can also route packets using IP addresses.
2. Data Transmission
- Hub: Floods data to all ports, creating congestion. Only supports half-duplex (data can’t be sent/received simultaneously).
- Switch: Sends data intelligently using unicast (after learning MAC addresses), multicast, or broadcast. It supports full-duplex (simultaneous send/receive) communication.
3. Network Domains
- Collision Domain:
- Hub: Single collision domain (all devices compete for bandwidth).
- Switch: Each port is a separate collision domain, reducing traffic collisions.
- Broadcast Domain:
- Hub: Single broadcast domain.
- Switch: Defaults to one broadcast domain but can split into multiple using VLANs.
4. Features & Management
- Hub:
- Passive device with no software.
- Limited to 10 Mbps speeds.
- No MAC address storage or security features.
- Switch:
- Manages ports, enforces security (e.g., port security), and controls bandwidth.
- Creates VLANs and supports spanning-tree protocols (prevents network loops).
- Available in 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds, modular hardware, and software-based options (soft switches).
5. Use Cases
- Hub: Rarely used today; limited to small LANs due to inefficiency.
- Switch: Found in LANs, WANs, and MANs for scalable, high-performance networking.
FAQs – Switch and Hub Comparison
What’s the main difference between a switch and a hub?
A hub blindly forwards data to all devices, while a switch intelligently routes traffic using MAC addresses.
Why are switches preferred over hubs?
Switches reduce collisions, support full-duplex communication, and enable VLANs, security, and faster speeds.
Can a hub work in a modern network?
Hubs are obsolete due to performance and security limitations. Switches are the standard.
Do switches use IP addresses?
Standard Layer 2 switches use MAC addresses. Layer 3 switches can route traffic using IP addresses.
What’s a collision domain?
A network segment where devices compete for bandwidth. Switches minimize this by isolating each port.
How do VLANs improve networks?
VLANs segment networks into smaller broadcast domains, enhancing security and reducing unnecessary traffic.