Learn How Network Switches Enhance Connectivity, Improve Performance, and Support Modern Data Centres
What is a Network Switch?
A network switch is a fundamental component of any IT network, allowing devices to communicate efficiently by directing data to the appropriate destinations within a network. Unlike basic hubs that broadcast data to all devices, switches transmit data specifically to the intended device using unique MAC (Media Access Control) addresses. This targeted approach enhances network performance, minimises data collisions, and optimises bandwidth.
Operating primarily at Layer 2 of the OSI model (the data link layer), network switches direct data based on MAC addresses, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity. Many advanced switches also perform Layer 3 functions, such as routing, making them versatile solutions for complex network environments.
Whether you are managing a small office network or a large-scale data centre, switches provide critical connectivity to keep systems running smoothly. At Bargain Hardware, we offer a wide range of high-performance refurbished and new switches - from industry leading brands such as Cisco and Dell - tailored to meet varying business needs without the high cost.
How does a Network Switch Work?
Imagine a network switch as a traffic director that ensures data packets reach their destination quickly and accurately. When data arrives, the switch identifies the target device’s MAC address, looks it up in its MAC address table, and forwards the data to the correct port. This precision minimises network congestion and improves overall performance.
Network switches can operate in different modes to balance speed and error-checking:
Cut-Through Switching: Minimises latency by forwarding data as soon as the destination address is read.
Store-and-Forward Switching: Stores the entire packet for error checking before forwarding, ensuring data accuracy.
Fragment-Free Switching: Balances speed and reliability by reading the first 64 bytes of a packet before forwarding.
Types of Network Switches
Network switches are classified into several categories, each designed to serve different networking needs.
| Managed Switches | Designed for complex enterprise networks, managed switches offer advanced control, security, and configuration capabilities. They can be configured using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) and are typically used in large enterprise networks that demand precise traffic management and robust security features. |
| Unmanaged Switches | These switches offer basic connectivity and require no configuration, making them easy to use for small businesses or home networks. Unmanaged switches work on a plug-and-play basis, automatically allowing Ethernet devices to communicate. For increased capacity, more switches can simply be added. |
| Virtual Switches | Found within virtual machine hosting environments, virtual switches enable communication between virtual machines (VMs) and provide efficient, secure data transfer in virtualised networks. |
| Routing Switches | These switches perform functions at the network layer of the OSI model and are used to connect multiple LANs (Local Area Networks). By enabling inter-network communication, routing switches facilitate data transfer across different segments, making them ideal for more complex network topologies. |
| LAN Switches | Also known as Ethernet or data switches, LAN switches connect devices within a local area network. By allocating bandwidth efficiently, they reduce the risk of data packet collisions and ensure smooth network operations. |
| PoE (Power over Ethernet) Switches | PoE switches provide both data and power over a single Ethernet cable. This simplifies the deployment of devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points by eliminating the need for separate power cables. |
| Smart Switches | These switches offer more control than unmanaged switches but fewer features than fully managed switches, making them a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized networks. They provide limited configuration options, such as VLANs and QoS settings, for enhanced performance without the complexity of managed switches. |
| Stackable Switches | Stackable switches can be interconnected to create a single logical switch. This setup simplifies network management and increases scalability, allowing multiple switches to function as a cohesive unit. |
| Modular Switches | These switches provide flexibility by accommodating multiple cards or modules, enabling network administrators to add or swap components as needed. This adaptability makes modular switches ideal for growing networks and evolving requirements. |
Bargain Hardware offers a wide selection of enterprise-grade managed switches that deliver exceptional performance and reliability at an affordable price. Our refurbished options ensure businesses can build robust, scalable networks without overspending, all while enjoying advanced features tailored to meet demanding networking requirements.
Protocols: Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and InfiniBand Switches
Network switches can support various protocols, each tailored to specific networking needs. Here’s an overview of the main types:
Ethernet Switches
Ethernet switches are the most commonly used and versatile switches in modern networks. They support standard networking protocols like TCP/IP and are suitable for a wide range of applications, from small office networks to large enterprise infrastructures. With speeds ranging from 1GbE to 100GbE, Ethernet switches provide scalable and cost-effective solutions for general-purpose networking.
Fibre Channel Switches
Designed for high-speed storage area networks (SANs), Fibre Channel switches enable fast, low-latency data transfer between servers and storage devices. With speeds of up to 128Gbps, they are a go-to choice for data centres managing intensive storage workloads, such as database applications and virtualisation.
InfiniBand Switches
InfiniBand switches are built for high-performance computing (HPC) environments. Known for their ultra-low latency and high throughput, they support speeds exceeding 200Gbps, making them essential for supercomputing, AI training, and scientific simulations. These switches are highly scalable, handling vast amounts of data with unparalleled efficiency.
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching)
MPLS switches enhance data flow in wide-area networks (WANs) by using labels to route packets instead of relying solely on IP addresses. This protocol is especially beneficial in complex enterprise WANs and telecommunications networks, providing speed and reliability.
SDN (Software-Defined Networking)
SDN-enabled switches, like those supporting OpenFlow, allow dynamic network configuration by separating the control and data planes. These switches offer centralised management, scalability, and flexibility, making them ideal for modern, hybrid networks.
Legacy Protocols (Token Ring and ATM)
Older protocols like Token Ring and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) were once prominent in networking. Token Ring used a "token" system for data transfer, while ATM employed fixed-size cells for predictable performance in telecommunications. While these are largely obsolete, they may still exist in specific legacy systems.
Top Uses of a Network Switch
Connecting Multiple Devices
Switches enable seamless communication between devices such as computers, printers, and servers within the same network, enhancing collaboration and resource sharing.
Improving Network Efficiency
By directing data only to intended destinations, switches reduce congestion and optimise bandwidth usage.
Enhancing Security
Managed switches offer security features such as VLAN segmentation, port security, and MAC address filtering, protecting networks from unauthorised access.
Powering IoT Devices
With PoE capabilities, switches simplify the deployment of IoT devices like security cameras and smart sensors by providing power and data over a single cable.
Supporting Data Centres
Switches play a critical role in data centres, connecting servers, storage, and networking equipment for high-speed data transfers and reliable operations.
High-Performance Solutions from Bargain Hardware
Dell EMC Z9100-ON Series Switch
Optimised for data centre environments, the Dell EMC Z9100-ON Series of managed ethernet switches delivers high-performance, non-blocking switching for demanding applications. It supports up to 32 ports of 100GbE and offers flexible configurations to meet evolving network demands. With features like redundant, hot-swappable power supplies and support for software-defined networking (SDN), this switch is perfect for high-density, high-capacity deployments.
Cisco Nexus N9K-C9336C-FX2 Managed Switch
For scalable, high-speed networking, the Cisco Nexus N9K-C9336C-FX2 is a powerful choice. Offering 36 ethernet ports of 100GbE, it ensures efficient data flow in complex environments, including cloud and hybrid networks. With support for VXLAN, advanced management features, and robust security, this switch provides an excellent solution for data centre modernisation.
At Bargain Hardware we offer enterprise-grade switches, available in both refurbished and new options, all backed by a 3-year return to base warranty. This ensures you receive high-performance networking solutions with advanced control, security, and scalability, while enjoying peace of mind. And we also offer a vast range of network adaptors and accessories.
Build robust, reliable networks tailored to your specific needs, all while maximising value and minimising costs.
FAQs on Network Switches
What is the main difference between a network switch and a router?
- A switch connects devices within the same network, while a router connects multiple networks and directs traffic based on IP addresses.
Can network switches improve network speed?
- Yes, by directing data to specific ports, switches reduce congestion and optimise data transfer speeds.
Do all switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
- No, only PoE-enabled switches provide power and data over a single cable, ideal for devices like IP cameras and VoIP phones.
How does a managed switch differ from an unmanaged one?
- Managed switches offer advanced configuration, security, and monitoring capabilities, while unmanaged switches provide basic connectivity without customisation.
Learn More
For more in-depth information on networking technologies, check out these resources:
Network World – Latest Networking News: Provides up-to-date news and articles on networking trends and technologies. Network World
Cisco's Networking Blog: Explore the latest insights, trends, and expert perspectives on networking technologies and solutions.