LAN switch


LAN switch

A network device that cross-connects clients, servers and network devices. Also known as a "frame switch," stand-alone LAN switches are common in Ethernet networks. A four-port switch is also typically built into a wired or wireless router for homes and small business (see wireless router).

LAN switches were available for Token Ring and FDDI networks, which have given way to Ethernet. ATM switches however are a type of LAN switch that is considered in a category by itself (see ATM). See Ethernet switch, Token Ring and FDDI.