Computers are an integral part of most businesses these days and even small companies can have a variety of PCs and related accessories available for use. While having individual computers is useful, it can be more efficient if these are set up in a network and port switches are used for this purpose. These can enable a number of computers and other devices to be combined into a network and a 12 port switch is a common example of this.
A port switch can also be commonly known as a hub and they are a small device that enables a number of computers, printers, scanners and other PC accessories to be connected together in a simple network. This can be useful for a number of reasons. It can enable the PCs in the network to have internet access through a single modem rather than each requiring a separate modem. It also allows all the computers to connect to a single printer or other computer accessory and this can be a more efficient and cost effective way of working. Another benefit is that the computers in a network can connect which makes it easier to transfer data and files between these.
A 12 port switch is a central hub that has the capabilities of 12 different devices being connected to it for the purposes of setting up a simple network. It can be useful for smaller business that have a more limited number of computers and associated devices available, although it can also be used in larger companies for use by a single department or floor.
While a switch with 12 ports generally enables up to 12 devices to be attached to it, the name 12 port switch itself is sometimes used as a catchall for all port switches. A search for the phrase on the internet will also show that there are port switches which have the capabilities for connecting from as little as 4 to as many as 48 devices to a single switch. The best one to choose will obviously depend on the number of devices you have available, although it can be sensible to choose one that leaves a little spare capacity for future expansion of a network.
12 port switch devices are manufactured by a number of companies with some of these including Cisco, DLink, Asante and 3COM. The cost can start around the $100 mark with the CISCO 12 Port Ethernet Switching Module being an example of this. This switch can be found on the market for around $90 to $100 in price. However for more sophisticated equipment with enhanced capabilities the price for a switch with 12 ports can rise to $500 and higher.
If you are looking to create a computer network in your office or home then a 12 port switch is a device that will enable you to do this. It has the capabilities for 12 PCs and associated devices to be set up in a network and this can be a more efficient and productive way of working. If you have a number of different pieces of computer equipment it can therefore be an option to consider.