An Ethernet switch connects computers and other wired devices in a central station. It is also connected to the modem and router for internet access. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is the wireless counterpart of Ethernet and allows for wireless connections to Ethernet networks. It requires a wireless access point device to act as a network interface and is defined separately from Ethernet in IEEE 802 protocols. Ethernet switches use multiple ports for communication between devices on the LAN, while hubs share bandwidth equally between ports. Ethernet switching provides more robust performance for networks with many active devices.
What is an Ethernet Switch?
An Ethernet switch functions as a central station connecting devices together in a network. It is commonly used in home or office setups, where it is connected to a router and modem to access the Internet. The switch uses multiple ports to communicate between devices on the LAN.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is the wireless counterpart of Ethernet. It allows wireless connections to an Ethernet network, extending access to devices without the need for a physical cable. Wi-Fi generally requires a wireless access point device to act as the network interface.
What is the difference between Ethernet and Wi-Fi?
Ethernet and Wi-Fi are described separately in the IEEE 802 protocols, with Ethernet defined by IEEE 802.3 and Wi-Fi defined by 802.11. The biggest difference is that Ethernet uses wired connections, while Wi-Fi uses wireless connections.
What is the difference between an Ethernet switch and a router?
While Ethernet switches function as central stations connecting devices together in a network, routers connect different networks. Routers use only a single LAN and WAN port, while Ethernet switches use multiple ports. Additionally, routers perform functions like IP address assignment, network address translation, and firewalling, while Ethernet switches do not.
What are hubs?
Hubs are similar to Ethernet switches in that devices connected to the LAN connect to them through multiple ports. However, hubs share bandwidth equally between ports, while Ethernet switches can dedicate more bandwidth to certain ports without degrading network performance.
Why is Ethernet switching better for networks with many active devices?
Ethernet switching provides more robust performance when there are many active devices on a network. It can dedicate more bandwidth to frequently used ports, optimizing network performance and preventing slowdowns.
