What is Bridge and Hub?
A hub and a bridge are both networking devices that connect multiple devices, but they operate differently and at different layers of the network architecture.
A hub is a simple networking device that acts as a central connection point for multiple devices on a local area network (LAN). It operates at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. Think of it as a multi-port repeater; it receives a signal from one device and broadcasts it to all other connected devices. This means that all devices on the network see all the traffic, even if it's not intended for them. This broadcast method is inefficient and can lead to network congestion, especially in larger networks. There are two main types: active and passive.
- Active Hubs: Amplify the signals received.
- Passive Hubs: Simply forward the received signals.
Reference: Hub is network device which is used for connecting number of devices. Types of Hub are: Active and Passive.
Bridges
A bridge operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. Unlike a hub, a bridge examines the destination MAC address of each data packet before forwarding it. This allows it to intelligently forward data only to the necessary devices, improving network efficiency and reducing collisions. Bridges connect two or more different LAN segments that use the same network protocol. Different types of bridges exist, each with unique functionalities:
- Source Route Bridging: The path for data transfer is explicitly determined by the source device.
- Transparent Bridging: The bridge automatically learns which devices are on which network segment. This is the most common type.
- Translation Bridging: Bridges networks that use different protocols.
Reference: Bridge is also a network device which is used to connect two different LAN working on same protocol. Types of bridge are: Source route, Transparent and Translation.
Key Differences: Hub vs Bridge
| Feature | Hub | Bridge |
|---|---|---|
| Layer | Physical (Layer 1) | Data Link (Layer 2) |
| Operation | Broadcasts data to all ports | Forwards data based on MAC address |
| Efficiency | Less efficient, prone to collisions | More efficient, reduces collisions |
| Complexity | Simple | More complex |
The information provided shows that hubs are simpler devices that broadcast data, while bridges use MAC addresses to filter and direct data flow more efficiently. Modern networks primarily utilize switches, which are more advanced than both hubs and bridges. While hubs and bridges have their historical significance in networking, they are less commonly used in today’s networks.
