Network hubs connect computers in a LAN to share resources. They broadcast traffic to all machines, making them less secure. Switches are faster and more secure, while broadband routers have built-in security features. Hubs are being replaced by switches due to their lower cost.
Network hubs are central components of local area networks (LANs). To understand the role of network hubs, a basic understanding of LANs is required. Whenever one or more computers are networked, a LAN is created. A LAN can be vital at work, but it can also be useful at home. The purpose of joining computers in a LAN is to share resources such as files, a printer, a scanner or Internet access.
There are four components in a basic wired hub network:
Ethernet Cable: This is the physical cable that connects computers, allowing them to communicate with each other. Ethernet cable, also called twisted pair, or 10-Base T, connects to a network card located in each computer on the LAN.
Network Interface Cards (NICs): One of these cards goes into a free slot inside each computer. The back of the card has a port for one end of an Ethernet cable. Newer computers usually have a built-in network card.
Network hub: The network hub is a junction box with several ports on the back for receiving Ethernet cables connected to each computer on the LAN. With ethernet cables running from each NIC to the hub, all computers are connected to the hub.
Networking Software: Most operating systems today come with built-in networking software, but software is also available from third parties. The software works with the hardware to create a network environment on each computer, allowing the user to view shared files and resources. It also allows for network administration.
With a group of computers connected to the hub and software installed, the computers can communicate with each other. Network hubs will broadcast all traffic passing through the hub to all machines or nodes connected to the LAN. Each computer/node on the LAN will have its own address, called a MAC (Medium Access Control) address. Each node will ignore any traffic not addressed to its MAC address.
Network hubs are simple devices that are fine for home use in most cases, but are not considered optimal for work environments. Network hubs can only operate in half-duplex mode: a computer cannot receive and send broadcasts at the same time. Another disadvantage is that network hubs broadcast traffic indiscriminately to all machines on the LAN. This opens the door to security issues, making it easy to use so-called packet sniffers, for example, to snoop on all network traffic.
An alternative to network hubs is to use network switches. Switches perform the same function as hubs but operate at higher speeds due to full duplex capability. This allows computers on the LAN to send broadcasts while they are receiving them. Also, switches don’t broadcast all traffic to all machines, they send information to a specific MAC address. Not only does this make your network a little more secure, but it also reduces wasted bandwidth.
Another option, for those with cable modem or DSL service, is a broadband router with built-in switch functionality. This eliminates the need for a hub or switch, as the router joins the LAN via the Internet. These routers also have firewalls and filtering capabilities to increase security.
Network hubs have all but been eliminated with switches being more reasonably priced. A 5-port switch can sell for as little as US$30 or less. In general, the more ports connected, the more expensive the device will be.
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