Switching methods?

raoul_1101

raoul_1101

Member
Hello computerforumers,

I'm looking to pick up a switch. Just a basic switch that I can use between my multiple computers to allow them all to get internet access [and for gaming (the college I'm going to provides me with one Ethernet jack and forbids routers)]. Looking into it a little, I found one I like:
Router
But I don't know much about routers, so is there any reason this would be a bad choice?

My biggest question is about the switching method "store and forward". Wikipedia says this has a lot of latency, but I'm not sure.
 
The switches that you buy at the computer store are way different than ones that are used in a corporate lan. Having said that you can buy Cisco used swithes for under $50 or $60 on ebay. You have to know which ones you need. There is some info on Cisco's web site or just start googling your questions. The short answer is, you can probably use a small computer store or from newegg type switch, will do all you will need to do.
 
Alright, so when I look up "store and forward", that's giving me information more for corporate/industry/high end switches, things I don't necessarily have to worry about.
 
Store and forward is the method most switches use. It's really not as slow as they make it sound. Here's roughly how it works. Packet comes into switch on port x destined for port y. The switch takes the packet stores it briefly while it finds out that the packet is headed for port y and then sends it out that port. I'm pretty sure the packet is just stored while the switch is taking a look at the header to find out where it goes. It's not really that inefficient. Especially when you consider how hubs work. It's a wonder anything got where it was going when everyone used hubs.
 
AdmnPower said:
Store and forward is the method most switches use. It's really not as slow as they make it sound. Here's roughly how it works. Packet comes into switch on port x destined for port y. The switch takes the packet stores it briefly while it finds out that the packet is headed for port y and then sends it out that port. I'm pretty sure the packet is just stored while the switch is taking a look at the header to find out where it goes. It's not really that inefficient. Especially when you consider how hubs work. It's a wonder anything got where it was going when everyone used hubs.
Click to expand...

Thank you for the reponse. I've already ordered the switch (and got it the next day?). It seems to be working nicely, but it's nice to have an answer to my question.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top