Hub

alt text

A Hub is a basic networking device used to connect multiple devices within a Local Area Network (LAN). It operates at the Physical Layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model and is often referred to as a multiport repeater.

Functions & Characteristics

  1. Device Connectivity – Connects multiple computers or network devices in a LAN.
  2. Multiport Repeater – Regenerates signals received on one port and sends them to all other ports.
  3. Broadcast Transmission – Sends data to all connected devices, regardless of the destination MAC address.
  4. Half-Duplex Communication – Only one device can send data at a time; simultaneous transmissions cause collisions.
  5. Lower Data Speed – Typically operates at 10 Mbps.
  6. Collision Domain – All devices connected to a hub share the same collision domain, leading to reduced performance in busy networks.