What is a Switch?
It is a point-to-point communication device. Basically, it is a kind of bridge that provides better connections. It is a kind of device that sets up and stops the connections according to the requirements needed at that time. It comes up with many features such as flooding, filtering, and frame transmission.
Working of Switch
- As far as we are aware, every networking device has a distinct Media Access Control (MAC) address.
- An IP packet is sent from one device or computer to another by means of a switch, which encapsulates the IP packet with a frame and its source and destination MAC addresses.
- The frame is stripped when it arrives to the target device, which then receives the IP packets and can only connect to the device that matches the destination MAC address that was entered.
Types of Switches
1. Managed Switches
Because we can simply design managed switches to meet our network perfectly, they offer additional capabilities and are more flexible than unmanaged switches. They are also more secure. As a result, we will be able to exert more control, better safeguard our network, and enhance the quality of service provided to network users.
2. Unmanaged Switch
Basic connection is the primary usage for the unmanaged switches. These are typically found in small networks or locations where a modest number of additional ports are needed, like a conference room, a lab, or a residence. Plugging in is all that is necessary for unmanaged switches to function; no configuration is needed.
Advantages of Switch
- It increases the network’s available bandwidth.
- It might have a direct connection to the devices or workstations.
- improves the network’s performance.
- Switches reduce frame collisions in networks because they help each network’s collision domain to develop.
- It assists in lessening the strain on specific hosts, such PCs
The main objective of router is to connect various networks simultaneously and it works in the network layer, whereas the main objective of switch is to connect various devices simultaneously and it works in the data link layer.
Let us see the difference between router and switch:
| Router | Switch |
|---|---|
| The main objective of router is to connect various networks simultaneously. | While the main objective of switch is to connect various devices simultaneously. |
| It works in network layer. | While it works in data link layer. |
| Router is used by LAN as well as MAN. | While switch is used by only LAN. |
| Through the router, data is sent in the form of packets. | While through switch data is sent in the form of frame. |
| There is less collision taking place in the router. | While there is no collision taking place in full duplex switch. |
| Router is compatible with NAT. | While it is not compatible with NAT. |
| Router is a relatively much more expensive device than switch. | Switch is an expensive device than hub. but cheaper than router. |
| maximum speed for wireless is 1-10 Mbps and maximum speed for wired connections is 100 Mbps. | Maximum speed is 10Mbps to 100Mbps. |
| Router needs at least two networks to connect. | Switch needs at least single network is to connect. |
| The types of routing are: Adaptive and Non-adaptive routing. | The types of switching are: Circuit, Packet, and Message Switching. |
Difference Between Router and Switch
In the sector of networking, routers, and switches are essential devices that play an important role in facilitating conversation inside and between networks. Both devices are crucial for the green and steady transfer of data, but they serve exceptional functions and operate at unique layers of the network structure. Both routers and Switch are the connecting devices in networking. A router is employed to settle on the littlest path for a packet to achieve its destination.