Network switches are an important part of any network, acting as a central connection point for incoming and outgoing cables and providing a connection point for multiple devices on a single network. Switches are used to connect several devices on the same local area network (LAN) or larger wide area network (WAN).
Switches are advantageous over hubs in that they are able to direct traffic to the specific port that the intended data is destined for. This eliminates the need for all devices on the network to be constantly receiving data, and also helps to keep data secure by keeping it from being broadcast to all other devices on the network.
Switches come in a variety of sizes, depending on the number of ports and the types of cables they require. Typically, a switch will require either a standard Ethernet cable, or a coaxial cable, depending on the type of switch. The most common type of switch is the Ethernet switch, which is used to connect computers and other devices on the same network.
Switches also come with a variety of features, such as port mirroring, which allows you to monitor the traffic on one port and replicate it to another port, as well as port trunking, which allows you to combine multiple ports into a single port for increased bandwidth.
When selecting a switch for your network, it is important to consider the type of cables it requires, the number of ports it has, and the features it includes. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of the switch, as well as the cost of the cables and any additional hardware that may be required.
