Unlike a router which is capable of creating and routing between multiple networks, a switch is a device that’s designed only to facilitate communications for devices on the same network.

A quick guide to managing a network switch versus a network router from PC Periodicals columnist George Cox.

A router connects your local network to the internet and manages the flow of data between networks, while a switch helps devices within the same network communicate with each other.

The difference is that a modem takes whatever data you need and sends it to the internet, whereas a router allows the devices in your home to wirelessly connect to the internet from the modem.

A modem connects your home network to the internet, and a router lets your devices talk to one another and use that internet connection. Most people need both.