Network switches that are low-end do your business a disservice. Low-end network switches behave similar to network hub switches. Switching hubs offer limited performance because the personal computers that connect to the hubs share bandwidth. As a result, data collisions are more likely to occur. These can significantly impair your network performance. In fact, your network may come to a screeching halt, which will cause your business to suffer.

Spend more and use network switches. You won’t be disappointed because they offer more features. They are known as intelligent network devices. Networking switches slice the connections between them and the personal computers. That way, personal computers have their own bandwidth to the networking switches and you have no collisions. Using business networking switches will improve your return on investment.

1. Improve your network performance with routing switches

2. Replace your switching hub with a business networking switch

3. Boost your network with intelligent network switching

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Install network switches into your network infrastructure

Network switches are known as intelligence network devices. Business networking switches will scrutinize data packets when your network receives them. Business networking switches find the source and forward those packets to that specific device. Using business networking switches saves your network's bandwidth.

I recommend: Check out How Stuff Works for useful information on how network switching works. Network Computing talks about the history of network switches.

Build a relationship with network switch manufacturers

Check different network switch manufacturers' websites. Companies that manufacture networking switches offer detailed information on the network switches. They will have photographs of them so you and your network engineers and network administrators can view them. These will help you to compare network switches. Once you have chosen a network switch manufacturer, make sure you build a relationship with the sales representative. As you are probably aware, building relationships are important, especially in this industry. Networking equipment can be obsolete in months. The network switch manufacturer's sales representative will know your needs, your network infrastructure, and your staff. That way, you'll never be behind the curve.

I recommend: Obviously, you will want to look at Cisco Systems since it is the most well-known leader in switches. You also can check out Extreme Networks.

Sign up with network switch manufacturers for technical support

You need to keep your network operating smoothly as much as possible. You can have the best network engineers. However, no one knows networking switches better than the network switch manufacturers. Rely on these companies; use them as your backup or resource. They are your experts. When a network switch goes down in the middle of the night, you know you can count on them.

I recommend: Check out Force10 Networks. They make networking switches and have a comprehensive technical support program. You also can check Juniper Networks for their network switching gear.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Increase your network switch's security by disabling its ports that are not being used. This prevents others from being able to add bad systems to the switch. You will have better control over systems that are using the switch.