In our previous blog “How Does Computer Network Work- Part-1” we discussed what a computer network is and how it works.In this blog, we will move one more step ahead. Now as we understand we need a hub or switch if we need to share any data among the same network or use any network devices like printers on a sharing basis within the same network but is only the use of a switch. Switch can do much more as it is an intelligent and manageable network device. Same for routers, but we have to first understand when, why, and where we should use routers and what is its functions. So, let’s start this journey!!
Network Switch in Computer Networks
In Simple Language: a Switch is an intelligent HUB or network device that is used to connect end-user devices to communication in the same network or LAN. We are calling Switch an Intelligent hub because it is a manageable device and we can manage it, and configure it as per our requirement. Also, it can make some decisions based in their intelligence such as:
- Address Learning
- Forward/filter decisions
- Loop Avoidance
As we understood in the previous article Switch is required to add multiple Network devices on the same Network and within the same VLAN. But what about if we have multiple networks or subnets in respect of multiple departments like Sales, Marketing, Accounting, and IT and we want these departments will talk and access their files only? Then we can create Multiple VLANs on the switch and add those departments’ devices in those VLANs respectively.
For more information on How Switch Works Please read: https://techblog.kbrosistechnologies.com/how-layer-2-switch-works/
Type of Network Switch
Network Switch has multiple flavours and basically, the switch has two types: Layer-2 and Layer-3. We can use these switches for multiple purposes like LAN connectivity, end devices connectivity, Access level network devices, etc. The switch works on the Data Link Layer in the OSI Layer Model.
Both Layer-2 and Layer-3 Switch have their use, purpose, and functions:
Functions of a Switch
Layer-2 Switch Basic Functions:
- Use at Access Layer in 3-tier Hierarchical network topology.
- To connect access layer devices such as Wi-Fi Access points, Cameras, IP Phones, etc.
- To connect end-user-level devices such as laptops, Desktop, printers, and Scanner.
- Work as an Access Switch.
- Maximum switches are 10/100 (Fast Ethernet) and have 2 or 4 x 1 Gig for Uplink connectivity.
- Switch can be available with 8 ports, 24 Ports, or 48 ports.
- Layer-2 Switch only communicates in the Intra-Lan network or Intra-Vlan or within the same subnet.
- Layer-2 Switch can not do routing or Inter-Network or Inter-Vlan or Inter-Subnet communication.
- Works at layer 2 or the Data Link layer in the OSI Model and that’s why these switches are called Layer-2 switches.
- Less or No Redundancy at this layer.
Now take a scenario where we need to communicate with other departments, other subnets, VLANs, sending or receiving Emails then a Layer-3 Switch is required to do inter-Vlan communication.
Layer-3 Switch Basic Functions:
- Use at Distribution and Core Layer in 3-tier Hierarchical network topology.
- To connect Core or distribution devices such as WLC (Wireless LAN controllers), Firewalls, DMZ, MZ Servers, etc.
- Maximum switches are 10/100/1000 (1 Gig) and have 2 or 4 x 10 Gig for Uplink connectivity.
- Switch can be available 24 Ports, or 48 ports.
- Layer-3 Switch can communicate in both Intra-Lan network and Inter-Vlan or subnet.
- Layer-3 Switch can do routing or Inter-Network or Inter-Vlan or Inter-Subnet communication.
- Works at layer-2 and Layer-3 or at the Data Link layer and Network Layer in the OSI Model and that’s why these switches are called Layer-3 switches.
- Have Link level and hardware level Redundancy at this layer.
For more information on How Switch Works Please read: https://techblog.kbrosistechnologies.com/what-is-layer-3-switching/
For more information on How Switch Works Please read https://techblog.kbrosistechnologies.com/what-is-switching-layer-2-vs-layer-3-switching/
What is a Network Router
The router is a Layer-3 Network Devices that is used to route a packet from one destination to another based on IP Address and routing Protocols across global.
In Simple Language, if we need to send any data to other networks, destination at outside network, organization or globally then Router act as a gateway of incoming and outgoing traffic based on Routes or Routing protocol algorithms.
Functions of Network Router
- Use at the Top of network topology.
- A router is required to Route the traffic.
- It acts as a Gateway for different subnet or network
- It performs routing based on multiple Routing protocols such as EIGRP, OSPF, IS-IS, and BGP
- Works at Layer-3 or the Network Layer in the OSI Model and that’s why Routers are called Layer-3 devices
- Have Link level and hardware level Redundancy.
Conclusion
Both routers and Switches are two important pillars in a network. Without these networks cannot be established. Both play their roles at each layer. Whole traffic or network communication only be possible and dependent on these devices’ functionalities and configuration.
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