What is the difference between a hub and a switch?

A hub and a switch both serve as devices for connecting multiple computers or network devices, but they manage data traffic in very different ways. The distinction highlighted in the correct answer is centered around how data is transmitted and directed within a network.

A hub operates on a very basic principle: it is a multiport repeater that broadcasts incoming data packets to all ports regardless of the intended destination. This results in all connected devices receiving the same data, which can lead to increased network congestion and more collisions, as every device needs to process every packet. This behavior is characteristic of Layer 1 of the OSI model, which is concerned with physical connections.

In contrast, a switch functions at Layer 2 of the OSI model and is much more sophisticated in how it handles data. A switch utilizes a MAC address table to observe the source addresses of incoming packets and intelligently forwards data only to the port where the destination device is connected. This targeted approach reduces unnecessary traffic on the network, enhances efficiency, and optimizes bandwidth usage.

Understanding this fundamental distinction between a hub and a switch is crucial for networking professionals, as it influences the design and management of local area networks (LANs), impacting both performance and scalability.