Partido State University
College of Engineering and Computational Science
NET1 – Networking 1
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
2nd Semester, AY 2024-2025
What is Hub?
A hub is a basic networking device that is used to connect multiple computers or other network
devices in a Local Area Network (LAN). It operates at the Physical Layer (Layer 1) of the OSI
(Open Systems Interconnection) model. Hubs are relatively simple devices that are often used in
small networks or as a temporary solution, but due to their limitations, they have been largely
replaced by more advanced networking devices like switches.
1. Function and Operation of a Hub
The primary function of a hub is to connect multiple devices (such as computers, printers, or
servers) in a network so they can communicate with each other. When a device sends data to the
hub, the hub broadcasts that data to all the other devices connected to it. It does this in a simple
and unrefined manner, meaning that the hub sends the data to all devices in the network, even if
the data is meant for just one specific device.
The data sent by a device is called a frame or packet, and the hub does not examine or filter the
contents of these packets. Instead, it forwards the incoming data to all the ports (except the one
from which it received the data). This process is often referred to as broadcasting or repeating.
2. Types of Hubs
Hubs can be categorized based on their operation method:
Active Hub: This type of hub amplifies and regenerates the signals it receives, ensuring
that the signal can travel longer distances without degradation. An active hub can also be
used to connect network devices that are far apart from one another.
Passive Hub: A passive hub simply provides physical connectivity between devices and
does not regenerate signals. It works purely as a conduit to forward signals. Since it does
not amplify signals, it is less effective over longer distances.
Intelligent Hub (Managed Hub): This hub is more advanced and comes with additional
features, such as the ability to monitor traffic, troubleshoot network issues, and configure
some basic network settings. These features make it more useful in larger networks.
3. Advantages of Hubs
Simplicity: Hubs are easy to use and set up, requiring little configuration. This makes
them an attractive option for small, simple networks.
Cost: They are generally less expensive than more advanced networking devices, such as
switches or routers, which is why they are sometimes used in budget-conscious
environments.
Basic Connectivity: Hubs can work in small networks where performance is not a major
concern.
4. Disadvantages of Hubs
Despite their advantages, hubs have several limitations that can affect the overall performance
and scalability of a network:
Bandwidth Sharing: Hubs operate on a shared bandwidth, meaning all devices
connected to the hub share the same network bandwidth. When multiple devices are
sending data simultaneously, collisions can occur, resulting in slower network speeds.
Partido State University
College of Engineering and Computational Science
NET1 – Networking 1
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
2nd Semester, AY 2024-2025
Collisions: Since a hub sends data to all connected devices without knowing if the device
is the intended recipient, it can cause collisions in data transmission. A collision occurs
when two devices try to send data at the same time, corrupting the data. The devices must
then resend the data, causing delays in communication.
Security Issues: Hubs are less secure than other devices like switches because they
broadcast data to all devices. This means any device connected to the hub can potentially
intercept and read the data intended for another device. In a switch-based network, data is
sent only to the destination device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Limited Scalability: As the number of devices connected to a hub increases,
performance typically degrades due to collisions and bandwidth sharing. Hubs are not
designed to handle large networks and can become bottlenecks.
5. Hub vs. Switch
While hubs and switches both connect multiple devices in a network, switches are much more
efficient and have several advantages over hubs:
Intelligent Forwarding: A switch operates at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI
model and has the ability to learn and remember the MAC addresses of the devices
connected to it. When data is sent to the switch, it forwards the data only to the device
that is intended to receive it, based on the MAC address. This reduces unnecessary traffic
and improves overall performance.
Collision Domains: Unlike hubs, switches create a separate collision domain for each
device, meaning collisions are eliminated in most cases. This allows devices to
communicate simultaneously without interfering with each other.
Full-Duplex Communication: Switches support full-duplex communication, meaning
that data can be sent and received simultaneously. Hubs, on the other hand, operate in
half-duplex mode, meaning only one device can transmit data at a time.
6. Applications of Hubs
Hubs are mostly used in small or home networks where the number of devices is limited, and
performance is not a significant concern. They can also be used in legacy systems or as a basic
networking tool for initial setups, before transitioning to more advanced network devices like
switches.
Some scenarios where hubs might still be used include:
Small offices or home networks where minimal traffic is expected.
Temporary setups in scenarios where network traffic is not heavy or critical.
Educational environments or training labs where simplicity and cost are more
important than performance.
7. Conclusion
While hubs are a simple and low-cost networking solution, their limitations in terms of
performance, security, and scalability make them unsuitable for larger or more demanding
networks. The development of switches and routers has largely replaced hubs in modern
networks. However, hubs may still be used in small-scale environments where performance is
not a primary concern, and cost is a critical factor.