How does a switch differ from a hub in a network?

A switch forwards data to specific devices, while a hub broadcasts data to all connected devices. This means that when a switch receives a data packet, it analyzes the packet's destination MAC address and sends it only to the specific device associated with that address, improving the efficiency of the network and reducing unnecessary traffic. In contrast, a hub transmits the incoming data packet to all devices on the network, regardless of the intended recipient, which can lead to network congestion and collisions, especially in larger networks.

This distinction is crucial because it highlights how switches operate at a more intelligent level compared to hubs. A switch is part of the data link layer of the OSI model, which enables it to perform the necessary functions to route data accurately to the correct location, while a hub operates at the physical layer and merely acts as a repeater for signals without any ability to direct traffic. This functionality of a switch makes it a more effective choice for modern networks that require better performance and management of data flow.