When it comes to technology and computers, some people feel like it is another language. Some individuals may study it, but most people take the easier way out: hiring someone else. This article will help you study and understand what a hub is.
A hub looks a lot like a router. It is in a rectangular to square like shape and has several Ethernet ports. It may look like a router and be about the same size, but its function is quite different.
The hub is a very simple device. It is used with wired networks rather than wireless ones. This is why it includes several Ethernet ports.
The function of a hub is to allow separate devices to communicate with each other. One device sends a packet of data to the hub and then the hub copies it. The hub then allows the copied data to be available through the other Ethernet ports.
There are three different types of hubs. These are: passive, manageable, and switching hub. The passive hub is the most basic one that just passes data from one device to the next.
The second type, manageable hubs, has an extra feature. This feature allows for managers or administrators to monitor the data trafficking in and out of the hub. Even though manageable hubs have an added feature, it still has the basic purpose of transferring data.
The last type is the most advanced hub. Switching hubs have the capability to read the destination address of the data packet and send it to the correct location. Most hubs used today are switching hubs.
Most people use switches instead of using hubs. They have the same basic function of hubs with a better performance and more features. Most routers and modems have the transferring data function of a hub built into them.
