A hub is a component that provides a common connection among computers in a network. It is the central component in some server-based networks. A hub allows computers of different types to all communicate together. Most hubs are active in that they regenerate and retransmit signals. This type of hub is referred to as an "active hub" and it requires electrical power to run. A "passive hub" can be a wiring panel or punch-down block. Passive hubs simply organize the wiring. They do not amplify or regenerate the signal. The signal passes through the passive hub. Passive hubs do not require electrical power to run. A "hybrid hub" is one that will accommodate several different types of cables. Usually these include one main hub connected to several secondary hubs that then connect to computers. A break in any of the cables attached to a hub affects only that segment. The rest of the network keeps functioning. See also "Server-Based Network".

This definition is in context to Computer Technology. See more contextual defintions for Hub.