What is Hub | Definition of Hub | Meaning of Hub – Computer Notes

What is Hub: Another name of Hub is Ethernet Hub, Repeater Hub, Active Hub and Network Hub. Basically, it is a similar to switch but are not as “smart”, 

Hub Definition and Meaning

hub in computer network is used for connecting multiple computers or segments of a LAN. Normally, it is used for Peer to Peer small Home Network. LAN Hub receive data packets (frames) through one port and broadcasts them through all other ports, so that all other computers or other network devices can see all packets.

That is, a LAN configures with Ethernet hub physically falls under the category of a star type topology. In the star topology hub work as a central controller. However, logically, it falls under the category of a bus type topology. Commercially available network hub normally have eight or sixteen ports. Networking hub operate at the physical layer of the OSI model. Traditional Networking hubs support 10 Mbps rated speeds (data rate or bandwidth) only, but Newer technology Dual-speed hub support 100 Mbps. There is no routing table in hub, as you find in router or switch.

Difference between hub and switch

Main difference between network hubs and switches is that hub in LAN broadcast all data packets (frames) to all active ports. but on the other side switches send incoming data packets (frames) to a specific port over a network. Switch keeps a record of all MAC addresses of all port connected devices. When switch receive a frame they know which port to send it.

Types of Hubs used in Networking

Active hubs

Active hubs is a central connecting device in a networking that strengthen the signal, prior to sending them to the destination devices. It is also known as “multi-port repeater”. Generally, Active hubs are used to create connections in a physical star topology. It can extend maximum media distance over a network.

Passive hubs

Passive hubs do not amplify the signal before broadcasting them over a network.They simply maintaining physical connection and received the frames, then rebroadcast them across all over the network. it is just a connector or connects the wires coming from different branches.The Passive hub is the collision point where the signals are come from different stations and collide.

Switching hubs or intelligent hub

Intelligent hubs has many advantages over active hubs and passive hubs. Switching hubs read the frames of each unit of data and then forwarded on behalf of MAC address to the intended port. It is a Layer2 device. Switching hubs support 10, 16 and 100Mbps bandwidth using standard typologies such as Ethernet, Token Ring.