Unmanaged Switch Vs Hub – A complete comparison
When it comes to enterprise networking, two of the most popular devices are the hub and unmanaged switch. In the following article, we are going to see how they differ, compare them and provide detailed reviews of their top products.
The hub and switch are some of the oldest networking devices and are still being made and used today. They perform different functions and operate on separate layers of the OSI model. Being unintelligent networking devices, they do not perform any form of data processing and act secondary devices to complex networking devices such as routers. A hub performs the simple function of connecting multiple computers to one network. It acts as the common connection point for devices in a network. A switch on the other hand sends data packets to specified addresses and connects different devices together on one network.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between a Huband Switch?
Devices |
Unmanaged Switch |
Hub |
Ports |
Multiport bridge (24 to 48) |
Multiple ports |
Form of data in transmission |
Frame and Packet |
Frames and electric signal |
Transmission type |
Unicast and Multicast |
Unicast or multicast |
Speed |
1 Gbps or 10/100 Mbps |
NA |
Mode of transmission |
Half duplex |
Full or half duplex |
Layer |
Layer 2 (data link layer) |
Physical layer |
Type of address |
MAC address |
MAC address |
Product |
Hub vs. Unmanaged Switch – How do these devices compare?
Types
There are various types of hubs and switches each different from how the other works. First off, we have two types of hubs: active and passive hub. Active hub has its own power supply and works as a repeater and a wiring center. They can also be used as extenders for two or more network nodes. Passive hubs on the other hand use power from the active hub and can’t really be used as extenders. Unmanageable switches lack a console port and an IP address. Hubs are better as they offer versatility in terms of usability.
Functionality and use
A lot of people confuse the two devices because of how similar they are in functionality. They are both hardware based devices with unintelligent capabilities. An unmanageable switch on the other hand is more hardware based. It is used to connect multiple computers and devices within one Local Area Network. Unmanaged switches cannot share an internet connection or communicate with more than one network. Because of this, when you use an unmanaged switch, there has to be a dedicated computer acting as a gateway that connects to the internet. It also filters and forwards data packets between the same LAN segments. A hub on the other hand somewhat a toned down version of a switch since it performs the basic functions of a switch. Hubs are passive devices with no software that act as a common connection point for multiple devices in a network. It is a dumb device. It also has multiple ports that allow connection in as many devices as possible. Overall, a hub is better as it is more versatile in its functionality
Supported devices
A hub supports more devices since all you have to do is connect the device via cable. The same applies to unmanaged switches. Anything from a PC, console, server or laptop can be connected to an unmanagedswitch. Compared to other networking devices such as router; routers support a wider range of devices due to their wireless connectivity support. They can be connected to wireless smartphones to other routers through cable. Routers are generally more versatile than the rest of the devices
Ports and connectivity
Unmanaged switches generally have more ports than hubs and are also slightly larger to accommodate these ports. Different switches have different number of ports ranging from 4 to as much as 128 ports. On average, a switch as between 24 and 48 ports for wired connections. Hubs are smaller and feature less ports. A hub can have between 2 to 12 ports of different types from Ethernet to DSL connections. There are different types of ports on both devices from RJ45 Ethernet, USB, SFB, PoE and SFB ports for industrial switches and routers.
Hub vs. Switch – A comparison Overview
Hub
In enterprise setups, hubs are commonly used to send messages from one port to the other connected ports. A message sent by one computer is read by the rest of the computers but only the sender can respond. Put much simply, a hub connects multiple computers to one network. It acts as the common connection point for devices in a network. It is important to note that hubs are unintelligent devices and operate on the physical layer of the networking OSI model. They are also much small than switches and feature between 2 and 12 ports. Hubs do not have operating systems and are simply hardware based devices that act as links between computers in one network. Lastly, hubs operate and transmit data in form of electric signals and bits.
LENTION USB-C Digital AV Multiport Hub
- Quadra USB 3.0 Ports: The LENTION C35 USB C hub multiport adapter can access to four USB accessories at...
- Video & Audio Output: Mirror or extend your screen with the HDMI port to HDTV, monitor or projector....
The Lention hub is a small and rectangular shaped device with a modern design and even more modern features. It comes with 5 main ports: a 4K HDMI port, 2 USB 3.0 ports, a card reader and a type C charging port as the name suggests. Furthermore, it features a high transfer speed of 1000 Mbps. For durability, the device is covered in an aluminum alloy casing that also gives it a striking look. But what we love most about this hub is the fact that it is offered in many colors. Otherwise, the device works well, provides high speed for 4K streaming in full resolution. It is easy to setup as it is a plug and play. And lastly, it is affordable and offers a lifetime support by the technical team.
Unmanaged Switch
A switch is used to connect multiple devices into one central hub for them to be able to communicate. It is made to allow communication between different devices on the same network. You can connect anything from servers to PCs into the switch. Because of this, they come with many different type of ports. A switch uses MAC addresses to communicate with the connected devices. Furthermore, it sends data in form of packets where they are needs and therefore reducing the congestion of data on the network. This improves the security of the connected devices and also works to improve the general performance of the connected devices. It is important to note that a switch does not provide any routing capabilities. Switches also come with LED indicators for easy identification of ports and status indication.
Netgear GS105
- 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed
One of the best unmanaged switches there is, is the Netgear GS105. It is a 5 port unmanaged switch that features fast plug and play setup. Furthermore, it is known for its silent operations and overall energy efficiency. With a lifetime warranty by ProSafe, you can’t go wrong with this switch.
Device |
LENTION USB-C Digital AV Multiport Hub |
Netgear GS105 |
Ports |
5 |
5 |
Speed |
1000 Mbps |
1 Gbps or 10/100 Mbps |
Special features |
4K Support, Auto Negotiation |
Data filtering, Auto Negotiation |
Availability |
Conclusion
Without a doubt, the Lention Hub is a much better option compared to the Netgear switch. The hub supports a wider range of devices as well as offers high transfer rates.