A gigabit switch is a type of Ethernet-powered network switch that allows devices to be connected to a LAN (local area network) at 1 Gbps or higher speeds. Gigabit Ethernet Adapter switches are the foundation of many LAN networks today. This technology was introduced in 1998 as a part of the IEEE 802.3z Gigabit Ethernet standard.
The gigabit switches are firstly used as core switches in larger 3-tier LANs. When you connect more devices to apps, downloading more bandwidth-intensive content, such as videos, requires an advanced connection.
This requires speed in the distribution layer and core switches to simultaneously increase from 1G/10G to 25G/50G at the distribution layer and from 10G/40G to 50G/100G and beyond at the core.
Conversely, Ethernet is a digital networking communications protocol based on nearly all shared networks. It provides a set of rules that govern the process of packaging and transmitting data between multi-user networks. Plus, Ethernet switches support data transmission without collision.
How does a gigabit switch work?
Gigabit Ethernet switches and rack switches connect multiple devices. The connection occurs by physically cabling those devices to the same switch or a network of interconnected switches (LAN). These cables consist of coaxial, fiber, and Ethernet cable twisted pairs.
Every Ethernet-compatible device consists of a hard-coded physical address called a MAC address. This connects switches to identify the device’s source.
After your device gets connected to the port, ethernet switches can easily measure the data flow between the device. This switching process guides incoming and outgoing data to the correct port on a switch-based sending port.
The MAC address of both the sender and the destination is included in the data sent in an Ethernet frame.
Types of Gigabit Switches:
- Fixed-configuration and modular configuration switches:
A fixed-configuration control consists of a specific number of unexpandable ports. Comparatively, modular switches are specially designed to become scalable by combining switch modules.
A modular switch allows additional modules like supporting security, wireless connectivity, or network analysis. Modules may also be added to support specific applications or use additional interfaces.
- Smart Switches:
These switches offer both management and segmentation. Smart switches also provide an excellent level of security compared to fixed-configuration switches. These switches can also be used at the edge of networks or as infrastructure for smaller, less-complex networks without scalability requirements.
- Unmanaged versus managed switches:
These switches are specially designed to be plug-and-play, with no configuration needed. Unmanaged switches offer basic connectivity for small LANs (local area networks) or single users.
In contrast, managed switches deliver a range of features to support the user experience, including security, expandability, manageability, and scalability. These switches are deployed as aggregation or access switches in large networks.
Features of Gigabit switches:
- Power over Ethernet (PoE):
PoE technology enables devices and endpoints to be powered through their Ethernet connections rather than traditional AC or battery power. This increases the flexibility and reach of connected systems.
- Security:
Most Ethernet switches have in-built security features such as segmentation and hosting firewalls.
- Number of connections:
The number of ports provided by the switch can vary. More network users, endpoints in use, ports will be needed simultaneously.
Typically, fixed-configuration switches can be available with 4 to 52 ports.
- Application Hosting:
Application hosting is now possible with the help of modern gigabit networking switches. It provides developers with an option for improving network performance.
Plus, a distributed computing application hosted on a switch in an intelligent building environment makes systems responsive.
- Multigigabit Technology:
For a greater speed margin than 1 Gbps to achieve legacy wiring, the gigabit switch must be compatible with multigigabit technology or capable of speeds ranging from 5 to 10 Gbps.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support:
Some gigabit switches provide power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities, allowing them to deliver power to connected devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points through the Ethernet cable. This simplifies the deployment of devices by eliminating the need for separate power sources.
- Link Aggregation:
Link aggregation, also known as port trunking, allows multiple gigabit ports to be grouped together to function as a single, high-bandwidth link. This enhances both performance and reliability by increasing the overall throughput and providing redundancy in case of a port or cable failure.
- Security Features:
Gigabit switches incorporate various security features to safeguard the network. These may include MAC address filtering, which controls access based on device MAC addresses; port security to prevent unauthorized access and access control lists (ACLs) for more granular control over traffic.
- Energy-Efficient Design:
Many gigabit switches are designed with energy-efficient features. This can include the ability to automatically power down unused ports, adjusting power consumption based on cable length, and employing other mechanisms to reduce energy usage, contributing to environmental sustainability and cost savings.
Bottom Line:
Gigabit networking connectivity offers the fastest internet-to-date connections. It provides a capacity that is 40 times faster than average connections. You can perform HD video conferencing in seconds, providing room for multiple setups easily.