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Hubs,
Switches, Routers, Wireless Routers, Wireless Access Points...
It can
be confusing to try and understand the differences!
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Network
Hubs
This is the simplest of distribution systems. A hub will allow you to
connect multiple networked devices via patch cables and will not filter
the data to any one port. Rather- the data will be available on all
ports. These are usually the least expensive distribution devices.
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Network Switches
Similar to a hub, however the switch can actively determine which ports
information should be directed to. Because the data is not
being distributed to all ports, switches normally run faster than hubs.
Switches come in a variety of flavors, including managed and
unmanaged models.
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Network Routers - Wired and Wireless
Routers can join multiple networks and usually include a built in
firewall (which you should be able to disable if necessary).
Like a switch, a router will deliver information to
particular destinations- but its more specific. A router will
distribute information to specific IP addresses (each of your networked
device will have its own IP address). Addtionally, routers
can act as a DHCP server and dynamically assign TCP/IP ranges
to all devices on a network.
Wireless routers usually allow for a few ports of wired network
connections in addition to the wireless distribution.
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Wireless Access Point
These are usually connected to a wired network device, like a router
and switch. An access point does not generate TCP/IP
information- it is more like adding an adaptor to an existing system.
They are also commonly used as a network extender to further
the wireless signal.
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