---->HUB<------------------------------ Function:
A network hub is a networking device that connects to one or more
equipment. For example, a computer can connect to a server, printer and
another computer through a network hub. It is useful in sharing of
resources and broadcasting data it receives. It helps connects these
devices together without having to connect to each other directly. There
are three types of network hubs: Passive Hubs, Active Hubs and
Intelligent Hubs
Passive Hubs:
One of the types of a network hub is the so-called passive hub. It's a
pass-through that does not do anything more than just broadcast signals
it receives through its input port, then sends it out through the output
port. It does not do anything to regenerate or process the signals
because it only functions as a connector of different wires in a
topology.
Active Hubs:
An active hub works more than just a
connector but also regenerates the data bits to ensure the signals are
strong. Another name for an active hub is a multiport repeater. It
provides an active participation in the network aside from acting as an
interface. It participates in the data communication, such as storing
signals received through the input ports, before forwarding them. It can
monitor the data it is forwarding and sometimes help improve signals
before forwarding them to other connections. Such a feature makes
troubleshooting of network problems easier.
Intelligent Hubs:
An intelligent hub can perform everything that the passive hub and
active hub do, and help manage the network resources effectively to
ensure that the performance of the network is highly efficient. An
intelligent hub can help in troubleshooting by pinpointing the actual
location of the problem and help identify the root cause and resolution.
It is very adaptable to different technologies without any need to
change its configuration. The intelligent hub performs different
functions such as bridging, routing, switching and network management.
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