[NTLUG:Discuss] Ethernet Switches

[David Neeley]

The "802.<mumble>" stuff is the Ethernet standard. Listing on a hub or 
switch merely indicates it is an Ethernet hub or switch that is compliant 
with a particular part or parts of the standards.

Essentially, a switch is an embedded computer. It will have some capability 
of upgrading the BIOS and embedded OS. On a simple "dumb" (unmanaged) hub, 
I don't think you'll see such a thing.

One of the common and inexpensive miniature switch companies you'll likely 
find in the computer stores is by Addtron Technologies.

Another tipoff is that a 10/100 switch works simultaneously at both speeds, 
and can autosense and negotiate a connection with the proper speed on each 
port. They can also interconnect a 10Mb device with a 100Mb device. So far 
as I know, you won't find that capability in a simple hub you might find in 
a computer store.

David


At 03:48 PM 10/8/2001 -0500, you wrote:
>As interesting as it's been listening to the discussion of the technical 
>differences between a hub and a switch, it doesn't answer my original 
>question.  What I originally wanted to know is: What should I look for on 
>the product's box to be sure that the product inside is truly a switch and 
>not a hub?  I imagine it might have something to do with that 
>"802.<mumble>" comment that was made in a previous post.
>
>Thanks guys...it's been an interesting discussion.
>
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