Understanding the Difference between Hub and Switch
Updated on Mar 10, 2025 | 11 min read | 1.5k views
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Updated on Mar 10, 2025 | 11 min read | 1.5k views
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In a computer network, a network device links fax machines, printers, and other electronic devices to the network. Network devices allow quick, accurate, and reliable data transfer across one or more networks.
Devices used for network connections encompass hubs and switches designed to facilitate numerous devices’ connection. Hubs operate within the physical layer and are used to forward signals to ports, while switches help manage data routing and transmission in the network web.
Hubs and switches share the role of interconnecting devices in a LAN, but switches offer a more efficient and organized approach by selectively forwarding data based on MAC addresses, resulting in improved network performance.
It is important to have an in-depth understanding of the key points of difference between a hub and a switch to determine their roles in computer networking. This blog is a comprehensive guide to help determine which networking device is better suited to your needs by learning the key points of the hub vs. switch difference.
A hub is a fundamental networking tool that joins several computers in a broadcast technique called Local Area Network (LAN). As the number of linked devices rises, this shared broadcast technique may cause network congestion and decreased effectiveness. Compared to more sophisticated devices like switches, the hubs’ shortcomings in controlling network traffic have made them obsolete.
A hub’s main purpose is to broadcast and amplify data to all connected devices, but it cannot effectively manage network traffic or intelligently route data to particular recipients.
A switch is an OSI data link layer-operated networking device that connects various devices inside a local area network (LAN). A switch, as opposed to a hub, is intelligent enough to recognize the MAC addresses of the devices connected to it.
This improves network efficiency and performance by enabling the switch to forward data to the designated device selectively. Switches enable simultaneous data transfer without collisions and enhance overall network functionality by creating distinct collision zones for each of their ports.
Modern networks must have switched because they offer better control over data traffic and maximize the utilization of available bandwidth. A switch works by forwarding data frames in an intelligent manner according to their MAC addresses.
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Here are the three kinds of hubs:
Active hubs have repeating capabilities to strengthen signals in a network. They amplify both signals and noise, which can be a limitation. They can additionally accommodate multiple sets of network connections.
These hubs do not include any computerized elements and do not process data signals. Their main function is to connect signals from various network cable segments. All devices connected to a passive hub receive all the packets that pass through it.
Intelligent hubs are also known as smart hubs. They have special software that allows them to perform management functions in the network. This software helps in identifying and isolating network issues.
Some of the essential hub features have been elucidated below to help you discern the stark differences between hub vs. switch in networking:
Since all connected devices share this collision domain in a hub, collisions are more likely if multiple devices transmit data concurrently.
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There are two types of switches. They have been discussed below:-
Additionally, manageable switches can be assigned an IP address, making it possible to manage them remotely over the network.
Furthermore, unmanageable switches do not support the assignment of IP addresses. As a result, they cannot be configured or managed remotely through traditional network management protocols or web interfaces.
These are some key characteristics of the switch:-
Parameter | Hub | Switch |
Layers | Physical layer (Layer 1) | Data link layer (Layer 2) |
Function | Broadcasts data to all devices | Selectively forwards data to specific devices based on MAC addresses |
Data Transmission Type | Half duplex | Half duplex or full duplex |
Device Type | Passive device | Active device |
Used in (LAN, WAN, MAN) | Primarily LAN | Primarily LAN |
Table | No address table | MAC address table for forwarding data |
Transmission mode | Shared network bandwidth | Dedicated bandwidth per port |
Definition | Basic networking device connecting devices in a LAN | Advanced networking device intelligently routing data |
Broadcast Domain | Single Broadcast domain for all devices | Limited to Individual switch ports |
Speed | Typically 10/100 Mbps | Can be 10/100/1000/10000 Mbps (Gigabit and beyond) |
Addresses Used | MAC addresses | MAC addresses |
Necessary for internet connection | No, obsolete for modern setups | No, replaced by routers and more advanced networking devices |
Device Category | Outdated | The preferred choice for modern networks |
Manufacturers | Limited presence due to obsolescence | Widely manufactured by networking companies |
Collisions | Prone to collisions due to shared bandwidth | Minimizes collisions with individual collision domains |
Spanning Tree Protocol | Not applicable | Used in network loops prevention (RSTP, MSTP) |
Learning the difference between hub and switch is pivotal, as it helps you understand the fundamental disparities between these two devices. While hubs merely broadcast data to every connected device, switches emerge as the intelligent orchestrators of data, selectively directing information to the intended recipients based on MAC addresses.
This hub vs. switch difference analysis however underscores the evolution in networking paradigms, with switches reigning as the preferred choice in contemporary setups. Their capability to minimize congestion, optimize bandwidth usage, and foster dedicated collision domains exemplifies their superiority in enhancing network performance.
As technology advances and demands grow, the transformative journey from hubs to switches becomes emblematic of the ever-evolving landscape of efficient and responsive network architectures.
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