A Free Educational Resource Created by Carnegie Mellon University to Empower You to Secure Your Part of Cyberspace

Switch

A device that connects multiple computers or devices within a single network

A network switch is used to transfer packets of data between two networks which are connected to the switch. A switch is an active element that is capable of analyzing the data in the packet to determine the packet's destination. Based on this destination, the packet is sent to the appropriate network that is connected to a switch. This device may be on the same line that the packet is sent or it could be a different line (port) that is connected to the switch. Switches are an efficient way of sharing data between devices.

Differences Between a Switch and a Router

Both routers and switches are used to transfer data between computers. The main difference is the level of operation of these devices. Switches transfer packets to a destination based on the MAC address or layer 2 addresses of the computer. Routers transfer data based on the IP address or level 3 network address of the computer. Switches create a network of LANs. A router can be considered as a device that connects such networks. A good network normally consists of multiple switches and routers that are interconnected to ensure cost efficiency and increased productivity.

Switch Models

Switches come in several different types of models. Each model can vary in the number of ports that are allowed and the total amount of traffic that can be handled by the switch. Smaller switches generally support around two to four ports. Larger switches may support 32 or 64 ports and handle several gigabits of traffic.

Configuration of a Switch

Commercially available switches normally do not need any additional configurations. The default factory settings are generally acceptable and hence these switches can be deployed without any configurations. Each switch usually comes with a manual that helps to easily configure the device. Additional information about the device is usually available on manufacturer websites.

Legal Issues

Legal

If you own a switch, you must ensure that it is maintained securely. If any malicious entity misuses your network, then you may be held responsible for the consequences. You should ensure that the switch is secured and is not accessible to unauthorized personnel. This will reduce the chances of hackers getting access to your switch.

References

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