Router vs Hub

Problem

Difference between a network Router and Hub for TCP/IP, EtherNet, LAN

Diagnosis

User of Goldenseal multi-user accounting software wants to know difference between an Ethernet hub or switch and a router

Solution

For an introduction to Ethernet hubs and switches and their differences, see “What is the difference between an Ethernet hub and switch?” at http://duxcw.com/faq/network/hubsw.htm. This info is paraphrased from there.

Broadband routers (or just “routers”) are a combination Ethernet switch (or hub) and Network Address Translator (NAT). They usually include a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server, Domain Name Service (DNS), and a hardware firewall to protect the LAN from malicious intrusion via the Internet.

All routers have a Wide Area Network (WAN) Port. This port connects to a DSL or cable MODEM for broadband service (e.g., the Internet) and is usually a 10 MHz 10BASET Ethernet port.

Many recent broadband routers are combination routers/Ethernet switch (or hub) that have multiple Ethernet ports to connect more than one PC to form a LAN.

Comments

Goldenseal business management software includes a multi-user version that runs over any LAN.

Entered 3/26/04 by Casey. Updated 11/3/2010.