[G4] Router definition and Ethernet Broadband question

[Snow White]

A hub will send the signal to all devices and let whatever (printer, 
computer, etc.) device decide for itself to respond or not.  On a large 
network there will be collisions and some data loss can result.

A Switch is exactly that - a switch and it will move to send a signal 
down line A or line B according to the address requested.  There is no 
more or less to it - that is all it does.

A Router will handle incoming signals from the internet and reject 
anything inapropriately addressed.  Also hide all networks IP numbers 
for devices from the internet side.  This is a Fire Wall.  It will also 
control the network communications by sending signals to only the 
addressed device or out onto the internet via the modem.  It basically 
controls all the communication in and out of the network and eliminates 
most or all  collisions of data.  Signals only go to the correct device 
(and no other).

Routers have a huge advantage and the prices now are quite simular.

jj


On 13-Dec-05, at 11:31 PM, g4-request at listserver.themacintoshguy.com 
wrote:

> Router definition and Ethernet Broadband question
> To: g4 at listserver.themacintoshguy.com
> Message-ID: <a06230900bfc4ee4fbc25@[192.168.0.21]>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" ; format="flowed"
>
> Alex Hurst <corkflor at iol.ie> wrote:
>> Forgive my ignorance, but is a router the same thing as a hub?
>
> No.
>
> There are hubs, switches, and routers.
>
> Here's an analogy with road traffic:
>
> A hub is an intersection with yield signs.
>
> A switch is an intersection with a traffic light and street signs.
>
> A router is an intersection with a policeman directing traffic.