What Is a Hub?

 By Charles Joseph | Cybersecurity Advocate

 Last update: November 25, 2023

A hub is a networking device that connects multiple devices together. Hubs are typically used to connect computers in a Local Area Network (LAN). They are relatively simple devices that can be used to connect many different types of devices, such as computers, printers, and internet access points.

Pros

• Cost effective: Hubs are relatively inexpensive compared to other networking devices such as routers and switches.
• Easy to use: Hubs are easy to set up and configure, making them ideal for small networks.
• Expandable: Hubs are expandable, allowing you to add additional devices to your network as needed.

Cons

• Low security: Hubs offer very little security, as all devices connected to the hub will be on the same network.
• Limited bandwidth: Hubs can only provide a limited amount of bandwidth, as all devices connected to the hub will be sharing the same bandwidth.
• Limited features: Hubs are basic devices and do not offer the same features as more advanced networking devices such as routers and switches.

Key Takeaways

• Hubs are devices used to connect multiple computers, printers, and other devices together on a single network.
• Hubs can expand the range of a network, allowing for more devices to be connected at once.
• Hubs are typically used in local area networks (LANs) where the devices must be connected to the same network.
• Hubs come in different types, such as unmanaged, managed, and intelligent hubs, each with its own features and benefits.