The switch has replaced the bridge in the modern network, which also replaces routers in many cases. A switch is a box with several cable connectors in it that is very similar to a hub. Some manufacturers have hubs and switches in different sizes that are almost identical in appearance. The difference between a hub and a switch is that while a hub forwards each incoming packet out through all ports, a switch forwards only each incoming packet to the port hub that provides access to the destination system.
Switches convert LAN from a shared network medium to a dedicated one. If you have a small network that uses a switch instead of a hub, each packet takes a dedicated path from the source computer to the destination and forms a separate collision domain for the two computers. Switches broadcast messages to all ports best affordable products, but not unicasts and multicasts. No systems receive packets destined for other systems, and no collisions occur during unicast transmissions. While a bridge reduces unnecessary traffic congestion on the network, a switch virtually eliminates it.
Another benefit of switching is that each pair of computers has the full bandwidth of the network dedicated to it. A standard Ethernet LAN using a hub has 20 or more computers sharing the same 10 Mbps bandwidth. Replace the hub with a switch, and each pair of computers has its own dedicated 10 Mbps channel. This improves the overall performance of the network without the need for modifications to the workstation. Switches offer port hub that operates in full duplex mode. Full-duplex operations can effectively double the throughput of a 10 Mbps network to 20 Mbps.
Wireless USB hub – get rid of cable clutter!
What is a wireless USB hub?
Wireless USB was created for portable users that allowed the device to go into sleep mode when the connection is not in use. This allows little or no power to be drained from the portable batteries.
A wireless hub can also be used on desktops, allowing you to connect to your USB devices without wires or “cable clutter”. Once installed, the wireless hub removes the search, settlement, and general confusion associated with the clutter of USB cables on your computer.
Wireless USB gives you the convenience of a Plug-and-Play USB connection and the benefits of wireless.
What can I use a wireless USB hub for?
On both a laptop and desktop computer, you will need a host adapter that can be connected to your existing USB port hub. The wireless USB hub can be located locally (usually less than 30 feet from the computer).
There are many uses for the wireless hub that you can connect to a variety of devices, such as:
– keyboard,
– mouse,
– printer,
– camera,
– Mp3 player,
– external hard drives,
The list goes on and on, but you can see that this handy little device can be indispensable and end the cable mess!
Technical information about wireless USB hub
Although the wireless USB hub is a simple device to purchase and install, there are some technical considerations:
USB connector:
The hub must always be supplied with a “USB Type A to mini-B” cable to connect a device to the hub. You will need multiple cables if you connect more than one device.
Adapter:
The wireless hub requires a wireless USB adapter, which is usually sold separately. It connects to your laptop or desktop computer.
Maximum number of connections (port hub):
The hub will normally have a capacity of 4 USB devices, but check and make sure it provides enough connections to your devices.
Data transfer rate:
Typically, the hub provides a transfer speed of up to 10 times WiFi.
Physical size:
Always check the physical size to make sure it fits your desired location. Also, make sure that the cable length “USB Type A for mini-B” is long enough to connect your USB devices to the hub.
Power:
The hub requires external power and all manufacturers supply a power supply to the hubs. The wireless adapter draws power from the laptop or desktop computer. [pii_email_f744b3ae828b2f819cbd]
Compatibility with operating system:
This is very important, make sure the port hub and associated software and drivers are compatible with your operating system.
What to look out for
Although USB hubs on the market are compatible with most manufacturers’ PCs, always confirm that the hub and associated software and drivers are compatible with your system. Also check for the latest driver update. Manufacturers often update their software to correct bugs and add features, it’s free, so take advantage of it. Check the hardware requirements on either the Amazon product page or the manufacturer’s website
