A network switch, also called an Ethernet switch, offers several input and output ports and serves as a central location controller for your home or business network. The switch will connect to your modem and router combo and then offer you additional Ethernet ports. It is used within a wired network to connect devices to the internet using Ethernet cables.
The network switch’s ability to optimize signals differentiates it from a network hub, where all signals are sent to all connected devices. A network switch analyzes the incoming traffic signals from network devices like desktop computers, printers, A/V receivers or a smart TV, then optimizes and distributes bandwidth and communication signals efficiently.
For the most tailored optimization, you can choose a managed switch, which allows you to prioritize traffic manually by configuring port speed, redundancy and other settings. An unmanaged switch, meanwhile, configures speed based on its own automatic assessments.