HP Deskjet 6840 Color Inkjet Printer - Manual (Page 48)

• Glossary
5.4.1 Ethernet basics
The printer's built-in Ethernet feature allows you to connect the printer directly to
a 10/100 Base-T Ethernet network without the aid of an external print server.
To install the printer on an Ethernet network, follow the Ethernet installation
instructions .
Hardware
Hubs, switches, and routers
On an Ethernet network, devices, such as computers and printers, are each
connected to a network hub , switch , or router .
Hubs, switches, and routers may look similar, but there are important differences:
• Hubs are passive. Other devices on the network plug into the hub in order to
communicate with one another. A hub does not manage the network.
• A switch allows devices on a network to communicate directly with one another
in a smooth and efficient manner. A switch monitors and directs network traffic
in order to allow each transmission the most possible bandwidth. By monitoring
network traffic, a switch minimizes collisions and maximizes speed.
• Routers primarily connect different networks (for example, connecting a home
network to the Internet). Routers are active. Routers have network
administration tools, such as firewalls and DHCP . A router can act as a
gateway , while a hub and a switch cannot.
Cables
Use a CAT-5 Ethernet cable to connect the printer to an Ethernet network. Ethernet
cables have an RJ-45 plug.
1. RJ-45 plug
HP Deskjet 6800 series printer User's Guide
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