Why Switch is used in Networking or instrumentation instead of HUB and Bridges! DCS/PLC networking
In networking and instrumentation, the use of switches has become more popular than hubs and bridges. This is because switches offer several advantages over hubs and bridges, making them a better choice for data communication systems (DCS) and programmable logic controller (PLC) networking.
One of the primary reasons for using switches instead of hubs and bridges is their ability to efficiently manage data traffic. Hubs broadcast all data packets to all connected devices, which can cause network congestion and slow down data transfer speeds. Bridges, on the other hand, filter and forward data packets based on their MAC addresses, which can lead to broadcast storms and network instability. Switches, however, use MAC addresses to forward data packets only to the specific device that needs to receive them, reducing network congestion and increasing data transfer speeds.
Another advantage of switches is their ability to segment networks. Switches can create multiple virtual LANs (VLANs) on a single physical network, which allows for better network management and security. VLANs allow network administrators to group devices based on their functions or locations and apply different network policies to each group, ensuring that data traffic flows smoothly and securely.
Switches also offer better bandwidth utilization compared to hubs and bridges. Switches can support full-duplex communication, allowing data to be transmitted and received simultaneously on a single port, which increases the overall network capacity. Hubs and bridges, on the other hand, only support half-duplex communication, where data can only be transmitted or received on a single port at a time, limiting the network capacity.
In DCS and PLC networking, switches are particularly useful in ensuring that data is delivered in a timely and reliable manner. Industrial control systems rely heavily on data communication between different components, and any delays or errors in data transmission can result in costly production downtime or safety hazards. Switches can prioritize data traffic based on its importance, ensuring that critical data is delivered without delay or interruption.
Overall, switches offer many advantages over hubs and bridges in networking and instrumentation, including efficient data traffic management, network segmentation, better bandwidth utilization, and reliable data transmission. These features make switches the preferred choice for DCS and PLC networking, where data communication is critical for efficient and safe industrial operations