Ethernet hub facts for kids

An Ethernet hub is a simple electronic device that helps connect computers in a network. Think of it like a central meeting point for data. When information arrives at one part of the hub, it sends that information to all other connected devices. This means everyone on the network gets all the data, even if it's not meant for them!

What is an Ethernet Hub?

An Ethernet hub acts a bit like a repeater. When data comes into one of its ports, the hub simply copies it to all the other ports. It doesn't check where the data is supposed to go. This is different from a network switch, which is much smarter. A switch sends data only to the correct device, making the network faster.

Hubs are very basic. They don't really understand the network traffic. Many hubs have small lights, called LED lamps. These lights show if a port is connected or if the hub is working properly.

Sometimes, two or more devices on the same network try to send data at the exact same time. This causes a "collision." When collisions happen, all the devices have to pause and then try sending their data again. This process is managed by a set of rules called the Ethernet Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) protocol.

Some hubs might also have special connectors. These connectors allow them to link up with older types of network cables.

Different Kinds of Hubs

There are a few different types of hubs, each with a slightly different way of working:

• Standard Hub: This is the basic type described above. It doesn't look at individual data packets. It just copies all incoming data to every other port. These hubs are often used to connect different parts of a local network.
• Passive Hub (Intelligent Hub): These hubs are a bit smarter. They can watch the data traffic flowing through them. You can also set up or "configure" each port on these hubs. That's why they are sometimes called "manageable hubs."
• Switching Hub: This type is actually a network switch, not a true hub. It's much more advanced. A switching hub reads the destination address of each data packet. Then, it sends the packet only to the correct port where the receiving device is located. This makes networks much more efficient.

How are Hubs Used?

Even though they are older technology, hubs can still be useful for certain tasks:

• Analyzing Network Traffic: If you want to see all the data flowing through a network connection, a hub can help. Since it sends all data to all ports, you can connect a special tool called a protocol analyzer to see everything.
• Preventing Network Loops: Sometimes, accidentally connecting two ports on a network switch can create a "loop." This can cause big problems for the network. Hubs are less likely to create these issues.
• Working at the Physical Layer: Hubs operate at the most basic level of a network, called the Physical Layer of the OSI model. This means they only deal with the raw electrical signals, not the data's content or destination.

Historically, hubs were popular because they were cheaper than switches. However, today, very few hubs are made. They are not an effective solution for building modern computer networks because switches are much faster and more efficient.

Images for kids

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  4-port 10BASE-T Ethernet hub with selectable MDI-X/MDI port

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  8-port Ethernet hub with one 10BASE2 connector and eight 10BASE-T ports

See also

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