Ethernet Switch

An Ethernet switch is the central node within a wired network. Devices are connected to the Ethernet ports of the switch using an Ethernet cable. The switch takes over the management for the communication exchange between attached and regulates the data flow between the devices attached to the wired network. A free port of the switch can also be used as uplink port to establish a connection to another switch. In this way, the number of available ports within the network can be increased. It can also be used to set up more complex network structures.

The classic, simple variant is a desktop switch. A desktop switch is usually very compact and can be positioned anywhere. Thats why it is often used in private or office networks. For larger, more complex networks, switches in rack-mount format are usually used. These are installed in a 19 inch device cabinet.