What Is A Network Switch?

A network switch is used to connect devices to a local area network (LAN) and allows the connected devices to be reached across the network. Typical products connected via network switch in an IT network include computers, workstations and servers, storage devices and printers. The difference to an Ethernet network hub is that a hub transmits data to all devices on a network. A network switch only delivers data to the designated device, and this helps to improve operational efficiency and helps to optimise bandwidth within the network.