Hubs in Networking

Table of Contents

• What is a Hub?
• How Hubs Work
• Limitations of Hubs
• Hubs vs. Switches
• Current Usage and Obsolescence

What is a Hub?

A network hub is a basic networking device used to connect multiple computers or devices within a Local Area Network (LAN). It operates at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model and simply broadcasts incoming data to all ports.

How Hubs Work

When a hub receives data from one of its connected devices, it transmits that data to all other connected devices. It does not distinguish between devices or manage traffic, leading to potential collisions.

Limitations of Hubs

• No Data Filtering: Hubs cannot determine the destination of the data packets.
• Low Efficiency: Sending data to all ports increases unnecessary traffic.
• Collision Domain: All devices share the same collision domain, causing network slowdowns.

Hubs vs. Switches

While hubs broadcast data blindly, switches are more intelligent. Switches can learn MAC addresses and forward data only to the intended recipient, making them more efficient and secure than hubs.

Current Usage and Obsolescence

Due to their inefficiency and lack of intelligence, hubs are now mostly obsolete in modern networking environments. Switches and routers have replaced them in nearly all applications.