Message-Id: <5.0.2.1.2.20001228210238.020e9c10@pop.rahul.net>
Date: Thu, 28 Dec 2000 21:26:30 -0800
From: "Christopher D. Reimer"
to use for a medium sized, 100mbit, possibly heavy used network? Hubs or switches?
A switch is better.
Also, can someone *please* explain to me what a switch is, what it does, and how it differs from a hub, and if there are any problems with using switches directly in place of hubs (except for cost.)
A plain hub is a passive device. If Computer A sends data packets addressed to Computer D, the plain hub will simply forward the data packets to all the computers and/or any network segments connected to the hub. This creates traffic and slows down the network. A switch hub is an intelligent device. If Computer A sends data packets addressed to Computer D, the switch can look at each packet's address and forward the packets to the correct computer or network segment. This reduces overall traffic and speeds up the network. Or, too put it in more simpler terms, a plain hub is a busy cross street with no lights or traffic signs. A switch hub is a busy cross street that has a traffic cop smoothly directing traffic. Christopher Reimer