Switch
A switch is a networking device that connects multiple computers in a local area network (LAN) and works smarter than a hub. The switch receives the data sent from one device and only forwards it to the destination device, thereby reducing the risk of collision and improving network efficiency.
Switches allow data to move more efficiently and effectively, as well as improve network speed and security.
Types of Switches
1. Switch Ethernet (Layer 2):
Ethernet switches operate on the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. They can filter and route data based on MAC (Media Access Control) addresses.
Advantages: Improves network speed and efficiency by reducing conflicts and disruptions.
Disadvantages: Cannot filter the top layer (Layer 3 and top), so it cannot distinguish between different data packets.
2. Switch Router (Layer 3):
Switch Routers operate on the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. They can filter and route data based on IP addresses.
Advantages: Can filter the top layer, allowing users to differentiate between different data packages.
Disadvantages: More complex and expensive than Ethernet switches, thus requiring a deeper knowledge of internetworking.
3. Switch Gigabit Ethernet (1000BaseT):
Gigabit Ethernet switches operate at a speed of 1000 Mbps, which is faster than standard Ethernet switches.
Advantages: Increases network speeds up to 1000 Mbps, ideal for applications that require high speeds such as desktop and multimedia video.
Disadvantages: More expensive than standard Ethernet switches and require special equipment to connect them.
4. Switch Fiber Optic (1000BaseSX/LX):
Fiber Optic switches operate at a speed of 1000 Mbps using fiber optic technology.
Advantages: Increases network speeds up to 1000 Mbps and offers higher security because it does not use copper cables.
Disadvantages: More expensive than standard Ethernet switches and require special equipment to connect them.
Types of Network Topologies
Network topology is the physical or logical form of a computer network. This topology describes how devices in a network are interconnected with each other. Choosing the right topology is crucial because it will affect the network’s performance, reliability, and cost.
Here are some commonly used types of network topologies:
1. Bus Topology
Bus topology is one of the simplest types of network topology. In a bus topology, all network devices are connected to a main cable called a “backbone.” This cable serves as the main path to transmit data from one device to another. Each device has only one connection to the main cable and does not have a direct connection with other devices.
Pros: Easy to install and cheap.
Cons: If the main cable breaks, the entire network will be disrupted.
2. Star Topology
Star topology is the most commonly used type of network topology. In a star topology, each device is connected to a center called a “switch” or “hub.” Each device has a direct connection to the hub, and data is sent from the device to the hub and then to the other devices.
Pros: Easy to manage, if there is a problem device it will not interfere with the entire network.
Cons: If the hub or switch is damaged, the entire network will be disrupted.
3. Ring Topology
Ring topology is a type of network topology that is more complex than bus topology. In a ring topology, each device is connected to the other in a chain, forming a circle. Data is transmitted from one device to another in a specific direction, and each device can only transmit data to the next device in a loop.
Pros: Data can flow in both directions.
Cons: If there is damage to a single device, the entire network can be disrupted.
