Understanding the Differences Between a Switch vs a Router

Switches and routers are important hardware components of an effective home network. You may think they provide similar functionality, but technologically, they have stark differences that make it important to understand the features switches and routers provide.

What is a network switch?

A switch is a network device that connects multiple computers over a local area network (LAN). The best way to understand a network switch is to compare it to a power strip; a power strip turns one live electrical outlet into several live electrical outlets so you can connect multiple power-hungry devices. Functionally, network switches work similarly, but they "split" a live Internet connection instead of power. Switches are important to expand the capability of your network. Your Internet service provider only provides one access point to a wide area network (WAN). When this point is funneled properly through a modem, a network switch can turn that single access point into the capability you need for multiple devices.

What is a router?

A router is a multi-function device that combines the capability of a switch, a wireless access point, a router and sometimes a modem. Routers prioritize packets to optimize network performance and provide multiple Ethernet ports, serving as a switch. A router also turns a WAN point into a wireless network in your home. Some routers even serve as modems.

How does a switch compare to a router?

A router is a far more versatile and sophisticated device. In fact, a router replaces the need for a network switch in many homes, since it typically provides the function of a switch along with its other features. While a switch merely splits the LAN connection, a router provides prioritized traffic, splitting functionality and wireless network conversion.

Does a router completely replace the need for a switch?

In some cases, a switch and a router complement each other on the same network. Assuming you have a lot of network devices that require Ethernet connectivity, the three to four ports provided on the back of a router might not meet your needs. In these cases, you can connect a network switch to one of the LAN ports in the back of the router, adding even more total LAN ports to your network. Daisy-chaining these devices expands your capability.

When you compare a router versus a switch, you find that a router is a far more complex and useful device while a switch provides a more specific function for the expansion of LAN-based networks. If you are looking for the more diverse, advanced device, opt for a router.