Why Hubs and Some Switches Do Not Have Software or Firmware Updates

Hubs are Plug-and-Play, require no software installation, and are compatible with any operating system. Controls, if any, are built-in. Once the installation instructions are followed, no changes may be necessary to keep them running.

Many switches are similar. A "managed switch" may eventually require a software upgrade, because the management covers many aspects of configuration, analysis, and security. As software, hardware and protocols evolve, a managed switch may be upgraded.

Doc: N100768.asp Dec. 17, 2003