switches

Performance.

A hub splits the network bandwidth between the connected devices.

A switch distributes the bandwidth based on the requested data rate.

If all devices connected to a switch have equal needs, the switch acts just like a hub.

However, if say 2 connected devices are transferring files between each other, they can be given a direct connection.

Or, 1 device can use the entire network bandwidth if no other device is using it.

The smarter the switch, the better job it does at the most efficient sharing of the resources.

Think of a hub as a 5 way hose couple to run 5 sprinklers. Each sprinkler gets 1/5th of the available water volume. Even if one needs more to cover it's area.
As you disconnect sprinklers, the remaining sprinklers get a larger share of the water.

Think of a switch as a water control system. Each sprinkler could 1 at a time use all of the water volume. Even when all 5 sprinklers are connected, only the sprinklers that need water get water.

Chas

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