Most blade server systems can have an ethernet switch module or an ethernet pass-through module. What is the difference between both? Is the pass-though module simply "dumb" as a hub? Why would you choose one over the other?
Switch – Difference between ethernet switch and ethernet pass-through
ethernetswitch
Best Answer
A switch is a switch... just like any Ethernet switch.
A pass-through is just that, it's not a hub or anything. Just like a wall jack, wire on one side is passed through to the port on the other side.
If you want switching self contained to the blade enclosure (which is fairly normal, though not always) then get a switch. If have switches or want to use external switches for some reason you'll need a pass-through module so you can plug the blades into the external switch. Blades have no external connections (normally, with a very few exceptions).