Im confused with these two network connector.Although I know that they have the same function to connect PC's in a workstation but im still confused what is the difference between the two.Anyone know this two better need your answer to my question.thanks!

Simply put, a router connects two different networks, with two different address spaces, and "routes" traffic between these networks.

A switch, on the other hand, connects devices to one network.

You may have also heard of hubs. They are similar in function to switches with the exception that hubs essentially share one "lane" and switches have dedicated "lanes" for each port.

Hubs, as a result can have "collisions", whereas switches don't.

Nowadays, switches are so cheaps so there is no need to use hubs.

A good technical discussion on the difference between hubs and switches can be found at http://www.duxcw.com/faq/network/hubsw.htm.

Wikipedia also has a good discussion about routers and switches at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router.

Hope this helps!
JV

Very good explanation (1 further thought)
the 2 networks you may be connecting with a router is your home or work network to an ISP's network to gain internet access. Where a switch would 'keep it in the family' so to speak, lol

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-William. § (marvin_gohan)

Thats a very good point, have to say!

I never really think of the ISP as another network, never imagined BT as "in the family" but it's an interesting point!

So what would they call something that can travel 3 networks? You know, like do VPN or something? I'd be interested in buying one that you can permanently log on to work, if you know what I mean - so it forms like a permanent tunnel, although I don't know whether they exist...

Even if they don't exist, they would be a good idea!

there is in fact a VPN router which does, as you insightfully (yet, regrettably too late), bring to light. A Cisco VPN Router allows various networks to connect through "tunnels" while also providing typical switching. The setup I use for work allows me to tunnel directly into my desktop at work. Then through the use of Dameware, I can console into the various network devices we use in order to manage our network from home!