TRENDnet TEG-S4000 - Manual (Page 16)

Figure 2-2. Expanding your 100Base-TX network (Class I)
Collapsed Backbone Link
Traditionally, bridges and routers have been used to link
local area networks into one interconnected network. But
these devices involve difficult management and long
traffic delays.
The 4-Slot Modular Switch providers multiport bridges
with short delays, easy setup and maintenance, making
it ideal for backbone links. Also, the Built-in filtering on
this hub deceases network traffic, while the multiple
ports that communicate simultaneously increases
network performance.
One or more of your hub's 100Mbps or 1000Mbps ports
can be used as a high-speed backbone link to other
hubs serving as collapsed backbones.