While it is true, a computing refers to a set of devices interconnected with each other from a medium, by which they exchange information and share resources. For this, it is important that there are two well-defined roles for the connected devices, since there must be both a sender and a receiver.
Now, in the great field of computer networks, it is valuable to know different terms, especially when it comes to connecting devices. At this point, come into play the famous “HUB” or “Concentrators” that they are a piece of hardware capable of connecting network traffic coming from multiple devices.
But to find out more What are these devices for and how do they work?like how are they classified in the environment of computer networks and What aspects to take into account when setting up one in your network; We invite you to read this post. In such a way, you will know how to buy an ideal HUB for your type of network.
What is a HUB or hub and what is it for in a computer network?
known as “Hub”in Spanish, a HUB is defined as a device through which connect several devices together so that they can communicate. That is to say, it serves to interconnect different equipment, such as: smartphones, tablets, computers, laptops, TVs, USBs and SD cards, for example.
Consequently, a HUB or concentrator presents the ability to create a network of computers connected to each other and even offers the possibility of extend the same from other similar equipment. Since the concentrator is an entity that has a certain number of ports and thus, its purpose is based on retrieve the binary data accessed by a port to emit it to the other inputs.
Thus, it deals with concretize existing network traffic which comes from numerous computers, and then It is responsible for regenerating the signal for all its ports. This, regardless of what is connected to these ports, because make a broadcast which consists of a process of receiving data and sending it to everyone.
Now, it should be noted that, a hub is not the same as a switch. In view of the fact that a concentrator is not able to disagree if the information that passes through itself is directed to one computer or another, because it is only limited to receive it and repeat it. While, a or “switch” is the intelligent version of a HUB and, for this reason, it manages to create a communication channel to distribute data to each destination device, apart from the fact that works with a larger number of machines.
HUB Types How are these devices classified?
Among other details, to better understand the operation of hubs in terms of computer networks, it is relevant to know that there are different categories or classifications of such devices.
Which, we mention below and we show you what each one is about:
Passive HUB
Refers to a hub that solely sends the signal to all connected hosts without amplifying it and does not require electricity to operate. Therefore, it only serves as a physical connection point and does not have the ability to manipulate or visualize the traffic that crosses it, so it does not increase the signal. Usually, used to share physical media.
active hub
Unlike passive hubs, active hubs are connected to a power source or electrical outlet, since they require electrical energy to amplify the incoming signal, once it is received and before being emitted to the other ports. Consequently, he is able to regenerate and retransmit signals in the same way as a repeater. In addition, they are also known as “multiport repeaters”because have eight or twelve ports to be able to connect the network equipment.
Smart Hub
As their name indicates, they are more advanced hubs that, apart from functioning as a active hubalso have a microprocessor chip and have diagnostic capabilities. Thanks to this, they are completely useful in fault diagnosis. It should be noted that this type of hubs They are also called “Smart hubs” and, mainly, they are characterized by being much more expensive than active hubs. In addition to that, allow you to connect several .
What should I take into account when choosing the best Hub to set up my network?
To determine what are the key aspects to consider before buying a HUB or concentrator, first of all, it is essential establish the use that you want to give this computer network device. Well, everything will depend on it to study the available alternatives and know how to choose between them. Once you are clear about the uses you want to give to this new device, you can begin to focus on certain aspects of great interest to achieve acquire the best concentrator around your user experience.
Among these aspects, we highlight the following:
- Compatibility: Of course, it is essential to verify that the computer network hub that you want to purchase, be compatible with your other electronic devices. That is to say, it can connect with your smartphone, laptop or TV, for example.
- Type of tickets: Depending on the types of devices you need to connect, you need to focus on purchasing a hub that manage to adapt to these inputs to take advantage of its operation. Whether it’s LAN, USB, HDMI, Type-C, etc. Otherwise, you will not be able to use it to connect what you need.
- variety of ports: On hubs, the more ports you have the greater its capacity. Therefore, as far as possible, try to select a HUB with multiple ports or inputs.
- The price: One of the most important factors to assess before buying a HUB, It’s definitely the cost. This, It will vary depending on the brand you decide to purchase and the ports it includes.. In general, its price fluctuates between 10 and 60 euros.
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