Switch Ports Connect Multiple Devices | Generated by AI
Question: Why do switches have ports? The cables connect them, and then it is done. Switches are not routers and computers, right?
Answer:
Network switches have multiple ports to allow physical connections via Ethernet cables to multiple devices (such as computers, printers, or other switches) at the same time. The ports are the entry points where cables plug in, enabling the switch to intelligently forward data packets only to the intended recipient device using MAC addresses. This creates an efficient local network (LAN) where many devices can communicate simultaneously without interference.
Simply connecting two devices with one cable works for direct point-to-point communication, but switches are designed for connecting more than two devices efficiently. Without multiple ports, a switch couldn’t link several devices together in a shared network.
Here are some example diagrams of Ethernet switches showing their ports:
Yes, switches are distinct from routers and computers:
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Switches operate at Layer 2 (data link layer) of the OSI model. They connect devices within the same network and forward data based on MAC addresses for efficient local traffic.
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Routers operate at Layer 3 (network layer). They connect different networks (e.g., your home LAN to the internet) and route data based on IP addresses.
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Computers are end-user devices that generate and consume data, not networking equipment like switches or routers.
Many home “routers” actually combine a router, switch, and wireless access point in one device, which can cause confusion.
Here are comparison diagrams:
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_switch
- https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/network-layer/what-is-a-network-switch/
- https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/small-business/resource-center/networking/network-switch-vs-router.html
- https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/what-is-ethernet-switching