Both a router and switch are necessary pieces of hardware for networking. Despite their apparent similarity, each has been given a different set of responsibilities. In this topic, we will learn how router and switch differentiate from each other.
What is a Switch?
A switch is a device that facilitates the sharing of resources by connecting devices together including printers, computers, and servers in a small business network. The figure below is a broadcast domain of computers i.e a group of computers connected by one or more switches.
The central box, known as the switch, serves as a hub for network devices. Switches can have a large number of ports. Most consumer-level switches have four or eight ports, whereas business-level switches can have up to 32 ports.
Note: It is also good to know that the connection between a computer and a switch is called a segment.
What is a Router?
A router just like a switch connects devices but instead connects multiple switches, and their respective networks, to form an even larger network. Routers are very essential as compared to switches, you will need one or more routers to establish a small business network.
Note: To enable the connection between these devices and the internet, a router first attaches the modem to other devices.
The Key Differences between a Router and Switch
To make it more understandable the below table will teach you the key differences between router and switch.
| Switch | Router |
| Switching consists of three types: circuit, packet, and message switching | Routing consists of two types namely adaptive and non-adaptive routing |
| Switches work at the data link layer | Routers work at the network layer |
| Not adaptable with NAT | Adaptable with NAT |
| Sends data in the form of packets and frames. | Sends data in the form of packets. |
| Connects several devices in a network. | Connects multiple networks. |
| No possibility of collisions. | Fewer collisions when in use |
FAQs
Do you need a router if you have a modem?
You will want both a modem and a router if you want to use WiFi or connect multiple devices.
What is a NAT?
Network Address Translation (NAT) is a technique for converting several local private addresses to a public address before data transfer.
Conclusion
We have seen from the preceding discussion that switches and routers are both essential components of networking, but did you know? obtaining a networking certification will enable you to better grasp how networking functions, not only that, networking is also among the top in-demand IT certifications of this generation so why hesitate? obtain your networking certification right away!
