Switches

Switches are a type of electronic device used to connect multiple devices on a computer network. They are an essential component in local area networks (LANs) and are used to forward data packets between connected devices.

Network switches operate at the data link layer of the network protocol stack and can be used to connect devices such as computers, servers, printers, and other network-enabled devices. They typically feature multiple Ethernet ports, each of which can be used to connect a device to the network.

When a device sends data to the network, the network switch receives the data and forwards it to the appropriate device based on its media access control (MAC) address. By using this method of communication, network switches can improve network performance by reducing network congestion and improving data transfer speeds.

Some of the key features of network switches include:

1. Port speed: The speed at which data can be transferred between the network switch and connected devices, typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps).

2. VLAN support: Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) allow network administrators to separate network traffic into separate logical networks, improving network security and performance.

3. Power over Ethernet (PoE): Some network switches can provide power to connected devices such as IP phones or wireless access points, eliminating the need for separate power supplies.

4. Quality of Service (QoS): QoS allows network administrators to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that mission-critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and reducing latency for real-time applications such as voice and video.

In summary, network switches are essential components in computer networks that allow multiple devices to communicate with each other. With a range of features and capabilities, network switches are designed to improve network performance and reliability.