In a network, a switch is a link between devices in a network. Learn how to understand switches, switch functions, and how they work in supporting data transmission on the network.
Switch Definition
Switch Function
The main function of a switch is to connect devices in a local network (LAN) and forward data packets between these devices. Below are some key functions of switches:
Forwarding Data Packets
A switch is responsible for routing data packets from the source to the destination. When it receives a data packet, the switch reads the destination MAC address on the packet and sends it only to the port connected to the destination device that matches the MAC address.
Network Segmentation
Switches enable network segmentation by dividing data traffic into virtual segments known as Virtual LANs (VLANs). By using VLANs, switches can separate network traffic based on specific needs and policies.
Network Performance Improvement
Switches enhance network performance by providing a dedicated path for each connected device. This reduces data collisions, which are common with hubs where all devices share the same network segment.
Broadcast Filtering
Switches can filter and control broadcast traffic on the network. When a device sends a broadcast packet, the switch forwards it only to the ports that need the information, rather than sending it to all ports on the network.
Fast Packet Delivery
Switches are capable of forwarding data packets at high speeds due to their efficient switching hardware. This improves overall network speed and responsiveness.With these functions, switches play a crucial role in building efficient, secure, and high-performance local networks (LANs).
Difference Between Switch and Router
Many people may still be unclear about the exact differences between switches and routers. Here’s a breakdown of their distinctions:
- Router: A router connects one network to another, such as connecting a LAN (Local Area Network) to a WAN (Wide Area Network). Both LANs and WANs are large networks that facilitate internet connections. Routers are essential for enabling communication between different networks and for providing internet access.
- Switch: A switch, on the other hand, is used solely to connect multiple devices within a single network without forming an internet connection. For example, switches are often used in offices or large buildings to connect hundreds of computers and devices within a local network.
In most homes or small offices, only a router is needed to access the internet. A switch is typically unnecessary unless additional Ethernet ports are required. However, in larger environments like office buildings or campuses, switches are essential for connecting numerous devices efficiently. This revised version ensures grammatical accuracy while maintaining clarity and structure.
How Switch Works
The way switches work in connecting devices in a local network (LAN) is as follows:
Data Receiving
When a switch receives a data packet from one of its connected ports, it reads the source MAC (Media Access Control) address on the packet. Unlike IP addresses, which change frequently, MAC addresses are fixed and unique to each hardware device, similar to a serial number. It is important to understand the difference between MAC addresses and IP addresses in networking.
Address Learning
The switch learns the source MAC address and the originating port of the received packet. This information is recorded in the MAC address table inside the switch.
Destination Address Determination
When a switch receives a data packet with a destination MAC address, it matches this address with its existing address table. If the destination MAC address is already in the table, the switch will send the packet only to the port connected to the corresponding destination device.
Flood and Learn
If the destination MAC address is not in the address table, the switch will use the “flood” method to send packets to all ports except the originating port. This ensures that the packet can reach its destination device. At the same time, the switch will learn the destination MAC address of the packet and record it in the address table. Thus, for subsequent packets with the same destination MAC address, the switch will send them directly to the corresponding port without flooding.
Network Segment Separation
Switches can also separate networks into virtual segments called Virtual LANs (VLANs). By using VLANs, switches can group devices into isolated network segments, allowing for customized access policies and increasing network security.With this operational methodology, switches can efficiently and accurately send data packets to their corresponding destination devices based on MAC addresses. Switches also manage network traffic, segment networks, and provide better security and performance in local area networks (LANs).
Pros and Cons of Switches
Pros of Switches
Increased Speed and Efficiency
Switches can connect multiple devices simultaneously and provide a dedicated path between data sources and destinations. This avoids data traffic conflicts that often occur on networks using hubs. As a result, switches can increase the speed and efficiency of data transmission on the network.Network
Segmentation
Switches allow for network segmentation by using Virtual LANs (VLANs). With VLANs, network administrators can divide the network into logically separate segments. This helps in setting security policies, improving network performance, and limiting issues in one segment from affecting others.
Accurate Data Delivery
A switch operates based on the MAC addresses of devices, enabling it to transmit data directly to the corresponding destination device. This minimizes unnecessary data transmission to all devices on the network, reducing overall network load and increasing data delivery speed.
Cons of Switches
Price
Switches tend to be more expensive than hubs, which are simpler devices. Since switches are capable of more complex data processing and have advanced features, their prices are usually higher.
Configuration Complexity
Some switches come with complex features that require detailed configuration. This can make them challenging to set up for lay users or those lacking experience in computer networking.
Single Point of Failure
When a switch becomes faulty or experiences problems, all devices connected to that switch may lose network connectivity. This makes the switch a single point of failure that can cause significant disruption in the network.
Types of Switches
The following are some types of switches commonly used in computer networks:
Unmanaged Switch
Unmanaged switches are the most basic type of switch. They have no configuration capabilities and automatically switch network traffic from one port to another. They are suitable for small networks that require quick and simple deployment.
Managed Switch
Managed switches are equipped with a management interface that allows network administrators to configure and control various features of the switch. They provide greater flexibility and control in managing network traffic, implementing security policies, and monitoring network performance.
Layer 2 Switch
Layer 2 switches operate at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. They can redirect traffic based on MAC addresses of devices on the network. Layer 2 switches can create separate broadcast domains and support features such as VLANs (Virtual LANs) and STP (Spanning Tree Protocol).
Layer 3 Switch
Layer 3 switches operate at the Network layer (Layer 3) in the OSI reference model. In addition to features provided by Layer 2 switches, Layer 3 switches can perform routing between networks using routing protocols such as OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) or RIP (Routing Information Protocol). They can create subnets and route traffic based on IP addresses.
PoE (Power over Ethernet) Switch
A PoE switch is capable of providing electrical power to network devices such as IP phones, security cameras, or Wi-Fi access points via an Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for separate power sources for these devices, simplifying their placement and installation.
Stackable Switch
Stackable switches consist of multiple switches connected together to form a single logical entity. In a stackable configuration, multiple switches are treated as one single switch with aggregated capacity and consolidated management. This facilitates scalability, centralized management, and high reliability within the network.It should be noted that there are many other types of switches available depending on specific networking needs. The choice of an appropriate switch should consider factors such as requirements, scale of the network, necessary features, and available budget.
Conclusion
A switch is a network device that connects devices within a local area network (LAN) and forwards data packets between them based on MAC addresses. Unlike routers that connect different networks (LANs and WANs), switches direct data only to its intended destination device. Switches support features such as Virtual LANs (VLANs) and Quality of Service (QoS) for traffic management and enhanced network security. In complex networks, multiple switches can be interconnected to form larger topologies, allowing for flexibility and increased capacity. Switches operate at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. This version corrects grammatical errors while ensuring clarity and coherence throughout your article.
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References
Author : Hassan Rizky Putra Sailellah | Editor : Meilina Eka Ayuningtyas
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