This is a computer-networking device that connects several LANs. It contains a number of Ethernet bridges, which means that unlike a single Ethernet bridge, data cannot become as easily congested. An Ethernet switch accomplishes three things: it divides the network into several segments, functions as a high-speed bridge between these segments, and allows for numerous computers to be connected without them all competing for network bandwidth. The Ethernet switch memorizes the address for each computer's specific port, then directly routes information addressed to that port, and then closes the connection.
A unit that redirects packets from input ports to output ports. Can be a component of the Sun Ray interconnect fabric.
A networking device which provides switched Ethernet. (see Switched Ethernet).
a bridge which can connect more than two segments together
a device that attempts to increase the utilization of an ethernet network by reducing the number of collisions and deferrals that occur
a device with multiple Ethernet connections, or ports
a LAN interconnection device which operates at the data link layer (layer
a more advanced device that sends each part of data to only those devices that they are ment for, thus increasing the network speed and security in networks where there are many users in the network
an electronic device that manages connections on Ethernet networks
a type of network hub that efficiently controls the way multiple devices use the same network so that each can operate at optimal performance
A device for connecting multiple Ethernet segments, while maintaining them as separate segments. Unlike a hub, a switch will intelligently route packets to the appropriate port (only) based on the MAC-level (OSI Layer 2) address in the packet.
An Ethernet data switch. Ethernet switches provide the capability to increase the aggregate LAN bandwidth by allowing simultaneous switching of packets between switch ports. Ethernet switches subdivide previously-shared LAN segments into multiple networks with fewer stations per network.
A hub-like device that reads the destination address in the header of an Ethernet packet and redirects the packet to the proper destination port. By sending the packets only to the destination port and not all other ports, an Ethernet switch increases the amount of data that can be transmitted on the network at one time. Contrast a switch with a standard repeating hub, which takes incoming traffic and repeats it across all ports regardless of the intended destination.
A device than connects local area networks (LAN). Ethernet switching is viewed as one solution to deliver 10 Base-T or 100 Base-T networks that are bandwidth-constrained because of a new requirement to carry multimedia messages and interactive videoconferencing communications. To qualify as an Ethernet Switch, a device must be capable of switching packets from one Ethernet segment to another "on the fly" and exhibit very low port-to-port latency.