What is a Switch?
A network switch is a
computer network device that connects devices on a single computer network
together. With the help of switches, connected devices can share data and
information and communicate with each other. Without a switch, we cannot build
a small business network, nor can we connect equipment in buildings or
campuses. Since the process of connecting network segments is also called
bridging, the switch is usually called a bridging device.
Types of Switch
Unmanaged Switches
Unmanaged switches are
mainly used for basic connections. These are mainly used in small networks or
places where only a few ports are needed, such as at home, in a laboratory, or
in a conference room. In an unmanaged switch, no configuration is required,
which means it just needs to be plugged in to work.
8 Ports Unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet Switch
Managed Switches
Managed switches are more
secure than unmanaged switches and provide other features and flexibility
because we can easily configure them to fit our network. Therefore, we can have
greater control, and we can better protect our network and improve the quality
of service for those who visit the network.
8GE SFP+2GE managable Gigabit Ethernet
Switch
What is a Router?
A router is a network
device used to connect multiple switches and their corresponding networks to
build a large-scale network. These switches and their corresponding networks
may be located in a single location or in different locations. It is
responsible for routing data packets from source to destination through the
network. It also distributes or routes Internet connections from modems to all
wired or wireless network devices, such as PCs, laptops, mobile phones,
tablets, etc.
Types of Router
When the light source passes
through the fiber, its power level will decrease. The reduction in power level,
also known as optical loss, is expressed in decibels (dB).
Wired Router
A wired router is a
box-shaped device that is directly connected to a computer through a cable or wired
connection. If you connect to the Internet by phone and use Voice over IP (VOIP), then you need a wired router. These are usually special types of modems
(ADSL) with Ethernet and telephone jacks.
Wireless Router
Like a wired network, awireless router is directly connected to a modem through a cable to receive
Internet data packets. A wireless router can create a wireless signal in your
home or office. Therefore, any PC within range of the wireless router can
connect to it and use your Internet.
Key Differences between the Switch & Router
The main function of a
router is to connect various networks. The main function of the switch is to
connect various devices in the network.
Router is compatible with
NAT while switch can't perform NAT.
Router can work within both
wired and wireless network situations while switch is restricted to wired
network connections.
The speed limit of router
is 1-10 Mbps for wireless and 100 Mbps for wired connection while the speed
limit for the switch is 10/100 Mbps.
Baudcom offers all types of fiber optic switch. For more information, please visit Baudcom.