Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Benefits of Hubs vs. Routers for Computers

Hubs and routers are two pieces of computer networking equipment that perform similar functions. Both hubs and routers act as connectivity centers of a computer network, and they each handle signal input and output, sending data to the places that they need to go. However, despite the fact that routers are a great deal more advanced than hubs, hubs still have some benefits and advantages.

Price
Hubs are at the bottom of the food chain when it comes to computer networking equipment, and as such, they're also the least expensive. A router is the top of the food chain of network devices, and because of this, a router might cost twice as much if not more than a simple hub. Routers have the ability to handle input and output from a variety of different connections, and routers can add a lot of speed to your network if you're willing to use them. If you don't need all of the advanced features of a router (either because your activities are simple or because your network is small) then there's no reason to spend the money on a router when a hub will do.

Signal Strengthening
Routers may be the superhighways of computer networking, but they don't always boost your signal properly. This is especially true when you have a large network of computers. Sometimes if your signal is getting lost, then it's a good idea to insert an active hub. Active hubs will not only help pass the signal along, but it will strengthen your signal and make sure that all the important data get to the other end of the network. Adding in an active hub or two is like using an extension cord so that you can build your network even bigger. So, while using a router might be great for the network's brain, the hubs could act like the nervous system, keeping signals strong.

Compatibility
Hubs are simpler machines, and because of this, a hub is much easier to make a part of your network. Routers are more complex, so there may be compatibility issues because of manufacturer or other technological misfits. However, a hub is much easier for computers to get along with, and you don't have to do anywhere near as much customization. This is true both for wired and for wireless hubs, the latter of which are still less expensive than a high-quality router.




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