Adding switch to router questions

Dragon · 29 May 2011 at 23:53

I have a Virgin media Superhub, which has 4 ports which really isn't enough for my network. I really could do with 7 or 8.

I'm told I can just add a switch to get more ports, but I'm clueless about networks so dont really understand it.

Firstly, can I add a 4 port switch and have stuff plugged into both the router and the switch? Or do I need to get an 8 port and only have stuff plugged into the switch?

Secondly, is there anything I need to do to the router settings to get it working with the switch?

Thanks.

Werewolf · 29 May 2011 at 23:56

All you need to do is plug the Switch into one of the lan ports on the router, with about 99% of modern switches that should work fine

(with older switches you might have had to use a crossover cable or a specific port for the connection, but newer switches and routers seem fine with a standard patch cable).

3dcandy · 29 May 2011 at 23:56

use any ports you want...doesn't really matter!!!

Cycrow · 30 May 2011 at 01:38

althou u'll need more than a 4 port switch if u want 7-8 devices.

u need to connect the switch and router together, so that uses a port on each, giving u 6 ports remaining

Dragon · 30 May 2011 at 02:07

Thanks for the quick replies guys, i'll get a switch ordered

PhillyDee · 30 May 2011 at 12:24

Switches are easy! Make sure you get a Gigabit one. An 8 port would suit you. I have a 16 port, it was cheap at the time, a bargain at the time when gb stuff was quite expensive. Means unless it breaks, doubt I would need another for quite a while still!