Advantages of Network Hubs

In a wired network, all of the computers and network devices are connected by wires or cables to a network hub, switch or router. The differences between the three types of network connection devices can be confusing to laymen, but the distinctions can be important in managing your network. Network hubs are the simplest type of connecting device for local area networks (LANs) and offer some distinct advantages for home networks.

1. Function

   • A network hub provides simple connectivity for a home network that doesn't need complex switching to manage high rates of traffic.

   Cost

   • A simple network hub is significantly less expensive than a switch or router. Some cost less than $30.

   Shared Internet Access

   • A network hub allows a single Internet connection to be shared among multiple computers.

   Scalability

   • Network hubs may have four, five, eight or 16 ports to which computers can be connected. Many network hubs also have an "uplink" port which allows the user to connect multiple hubs so that more computers can be connected to the network.

   Network Monitoring

   • Because network hubs transmit all data received to all connected devices, they allow easy, inexpensive monitoring of the entire network.

   Backward Compatibility

   • A network hub is the cheapest and easiest way to connect some types of older network devices, specifically those that only support 10BASE2 ports, to a modern network.