Run out of ethernet ports on your router? Here’s the solution
(SPOILER: GET A NETWORK SWITCH)
Out of ethernet ports? Then a network switch is your best friend
An important note here: make sure you get a network switch andnot a network splitter.
A network splitter (also known as an ethernet splitter) doesn’t actually allow you to increase the number of wired connections you can make on your router. A network switch does.
All you need to do is plug the network switch into your router and connect more devices to that. Suddenly, you have access to a whole load more wired connections in your home or office. It’s that simple.
The two types of network switches
Okay, so you’re out of ethernet ports and you want a switch. Thing is, you keep seeing mentions of “managed” and “unmanaged” network switches. Which one do you choose?
Long story short, a managed switch allows you to change settings, such as QoS, traffic levels, channel prioritization. An unmanaged switch doesn’t.
After some consideration, I selected a managed switch. Both types allow you to plug-and-play (I literally just connected mine and everything worked perfectly), but I found the idea of paying a bit more just in case I needed more customization options in the future too alluring to pass up.
The other decision you need to make is how many extra ethernet ports you want your network switch to have. I went for eight — because you never know what’s going to crop up in the future. I’d suggest you do the same.
So… you want a managed network switch with eight ethernet ports. That much is clear. But which one?
Well, there are a range of reputable companies making network switches. I got mine from Netgear (the model is the GS308E) and I’m incredibly happy with it, but I would assume most major manufacturers of networking gear would make solid switches for the home.
Anyway, run out of ethernet ports on your router? Then get a network switch, friend.
Story byCallum Booth
Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting(show all)Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting was cited widely, including in VICE, the FT, and the BBC.
Callum’s writing has appeared in The Verge, The Daily Telegraph, Time Out, and many more. He covers the full spectrum of technology, with a particular focus on how it shapes our daily lives. And a lot of regulation stuff too.
Outside of work, Callum’s an avid bookworm, a Fisherman’s Friends addict, and resolutely unshaven. Follow him on Twitter @CallumBooth or visit www.callumbooth.net.
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