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The
advantage of a Fast Ethernet Switch over the traditional
Hub, which would broadcast your transmission over
all ports, is that the Switch directs network traffic
in a very efficient manner - it sends information
directly from the port of origin to only its destination
port. Switching increases network performance, enhances
flexibility and eases moves, adds and changes. Switching
establishes a direct line of communication between
two ports and maintains multiple simultaneous links
between various ports. It proficiently manages network
traffic by reducing media sharing - traffic is contained
to the segment for which it is destined, be it a server,
power user or workgroup.
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A
router basically joins two separate networks together.
The most common use is in joining your local area
network (LAN) together with a separate network such
as the internet. Every bit of information streaming
through your network is examined by the router as
to whether the information packet should stay in your
network or be routed outside to a computer somewhere
on the internet. If the packet is sent or routed to
another network, the router monitors it's progress
and makes sure it reaches it's destination. Another
function performed by the router is to protect the
networks from one another, preventing the traffic
on one from unnecessarily spilling over to the other.
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WIFI
stands for "Wireless Fidelity" and is essentially
a seal of approval that says the manufacturer's product
is compliant with a variation of the IEEE 802.11 specification
known as IEEE 802.11b. Under 802.11b, devices communicate
at a speed of 11 Mbps whenever possible. If signal
strength or interference is disrupting data, the devices
will drop back to 5.5 Mbps, then 2 Mbps and finally
down to 1 Mbps. Though it may occasionally slow down,
this keeps the network stable and very reliable.
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