To establish communication, we must create links that can be fiber optic or wireless, thus forming networks. The term "networks" also applies when we create a connection between several computers so that they can communicate with each other, and it does not necessarily have to be fiber optic. A corporate network, for example, allows company members to communicate with each other, and also facilitates communication with their partners and clients. For a network to function, we will basically need two types of equipment: switches and routers. In this Incom blog post, we will discuss switches.
Switches are devices created to manage network performance; they can add greater bandwidth and speed up the output of information (which is sent in "packets"). The switch acts as a "regulator" of "packets." Depending on its type and configuration, it can detect the most optimal path in the network to send information; they connect computers, printers, servers, among others.
There are two types of switches: unmanaged switches, which means we cannot make changes to their configuration and they will operate automatically; the other type of switches are managed switches, which allow for changes and programming to function under certain protocols as required for the network in which they are implemented.
Additionally, there are home-use switches that can be easily mounted on a desktop; they are used in small business networks or home networks and are unmanaged. Their configuration is done automatically via Ethernet configuration. In Figure 1, we can see such a switch, and in Figure 2, we can see a rack-mount switch, which is for slightly larger networks where the infrastructure changes and more robust equipment is needed according to the network's requirements.
Figure 1. Desktop switch with 8 ports.
The success of a network will depend on good design and user interaction with the network, as users will judge performance by speed and reliability. There is an 80/20 rule where 80% of network traffic remains local and will depend on the switch. At Incom, we have ideal switches for micro, medium, and small business solutions. Contact us for more information and advice.
