An Ethernet switch is a type of network hardware that connects devices on a computer network by using packet switching to receive and forward data to the destination device. It is a multiport network bridge that uses MAC addresses to forward data. Ethernet switches connect cabled devices, like computers, Wi-Fi access points, PoE lighting, and printers to a local area network (LAN) . Once a device is connected to a port, the Ethernet switch manages the flow of data between the device and other devices, applications, data, cloud services, and the internet. The switching process directs incoming and outgoing data to the correct port on the switch based on the port of the sending device and the sending and destination MAC addresses. Ethernet switches provide many advantages when correctly installed, integrated, and managed, including reduction of network downtime, improved network performance, and increased available bandwidth on the network.
In summary, an Ethernet switch is a device that connects other devices together on a computer network and manages the flow of data between them. It is an essential component of most modern local area networks (LANs) and plays a critical role in making wired and wireless connectivity possible and supporting the growing Internet of Things (IoT) .
