Hub and Switch in Networking

1. Hub

A hub is a basic networking device used to connect multiple computers or devices in a local area network (LAN). It works at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model.

How it Works

• A hub receives data from one device and broadcasts it to all connected devices, regardless of the destination.

• Only the device meant to receive the data accepts it, while others ignore it.

Types of Hubs

• Active Hub – Amplifies and regenerates the signal before forwarding.

• Passive Hub – Simply forwards the signal without amplification.

Advantages

• Simple to use and inexpensive.

• Useful for small networks.

Disadvantages

• Wastes bandwidth because data is sent to all devices.

• Less secure, as every device sees all data.

• Can cause network collisions and slow performance.

2. Switch

A switch is a more advanced networking device that connects devices in a LAN. It works at the data link layer (Layer 2), and some switches can also operate at the network layer (Layer 3).

How it Works

• A switch learns the MAC addresses of connected devices.

• When data arrives, the switch sends it only to the intended device instead of broadcasting to all.

• This reduces unnecessary traffic and improves efficiency.

Advantages

• Faster and more efficient than hubs.

• Provides better security since data is sent only to the target device.

• Reduces network collisions.

• Supports VLANs and advanced management features.

Disadvantages

• More expensive than hubs.

• Configuration may be required in managed switches.