Devolo

LAN Switch – Brief definition

A LAN switch (Local Area Network Switch) is a device that transmits data packets between connected devices in a local network (LAN).

A LAN switch helps to organize and optimize traffic within the network. It allows the connection of end devices via Ethernet cables with particularly high speed and efficiency – the switch can identify the connected devices and therefore distribute data selectively.

How does a LAN switch work?

A LAN switch operates in the network like a well-coordinated logistics company. It receives all the data sent or received by connected devices. The switch ensures that the data quickly reaches its destination. Its great strength lies in its ability to make precise assignments: Devices within a network identify themselves using a unique MAC address (Media Access Control address). With the help of these MAC addresses, the switch delivers received data only to the specific device that is meant to receive it. This allows for optimally managed data traffic within the network.

Connecting a Switch – Incredibly Simple

Setting up a modern switch is remarkably easy. It only requires a power supply to be operational. Devices such as computers, NAS servers, or printers are then connected via Ethernet cables. The switch automatically detects the connected devices and begins data transmission. There's nothing more to do. Further settings are only necessary for switches intended for professional use. And that brings us to the next point.

LAN switch: managed and unmanaged – what is the difference?

Switches can be categorized into two types:

  • Unmanaged Switches require no special knowledge and manage data traffic within the network without the need for specific configuration. This makes them ideal for use in home networks.
  • Managed Switches offer advanced features such as support for VLANs or network monitoring. Managed Switches are more expensive to acquire and are aimed at professional IT infrastructures.

Switch, hub, and splitter – what are they?

Switches, hubs, and splitters are often lumped together or even confused with one another. However, these devices differ fundamentally:

  • Hubs enable the connection of end devices to a network. However, they do not communicate efficiently, as received data is always transmitted to the entire network.
  • Switches, on the other hand, operate more intelligently by forwarding data only to the intended recipients. This makes the connection faster.
  • A splitter, on the other hand, is a significantly simpler network component and functions more like an adapter. It distributes the incoming signal among all connected devices, thereby reducing the bandwidth of each individual connection.


For building a modern network, it is advisable to use a switch, as hubs and splitters are outdated or only make sense in very limited configurations.

The advantages of a LAN switch

Switches, such as the devolo Gigabit Ethernet Switches, offer many advantages for optimized communication in networks:

  • Efficient Data Transmission: Through targeted data forwarding, bandwidth and speed are optimized.
  • Improved Network Speed: By enabling targeted data transmission, a switch allows for faster connections between devices. This is particularly beneficial for bandwidth-intensive applications such as streaming, gaming, and transfers of large files.
  • Low Latencies: Additionally, delays are minimized, which is especially noticeable in real-time applications such as online gaming or video conferencing.
  • More Connections: In many households, routers take on the role of a switch by directly connecting multiple devices. While this generally works, routers usually have relatively few Ethernet ports. As the number of devices increases, there is no alternative to using a switch.
  • Flexibility: Additionally, a switch can be installed more flexibly and precisely than a router, whose location is usually determined by the connection socket. Switches also enable better scalability of an existing network.

devolo Gigabit Ethernet Switches