How to Turn a Router Into A Dumb Switch

[Christmas themed thank]

Hello,

I would like to turn a router into a dumb switch. Now, I know I can disable the DHCP server but that still results in devices connected to it not appearing on the actual router so I can't do DHCP reservation on the router.

Can I do this or would I just be better buying a switch?

 

[Duke]

Hmm could also turn off UPNP. Some routers have the option of turning into 'switch only' mode but not many.

 

[PistolPete]

Are you connecting to only the LAN ports on the router you are using as a switch?
Have you tried a normal and a crossover cable between two routers? Some routers will auto switch so a normal cable will work, others don't so they will need a crossover.

 

[ChrisD.]

There's no such thing as a dumb switch, only hubs.

Switches are intelligent devices as they learn and store MAC address tables.

I think you're referring to a non-managed switch, rather than dumb?

Not that it matters.

Depending on the make of the router, you would need to turn off NAT and DHCP, and it should function as a layer 2 switch. If you can't turn off NAT, then give the router a static IP outside of the new DHCP scope.

But for the sake of £15 for a Gbit switch, just get one instead and sell the router.

 

[~Mike~]

How To Use a Router To Add Network Ports - http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/lanwan/lanwan-basics/30740-how-to-use-a-router-to-add-network-ports


How To Convert a Wireless Router into an Access Point - http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/wire...onvert-a-wireless-router-into-an-access-point

 

[Phemo]

Disabling NAT shouldn't even be needed since NAT will only come into effect for traffic between the WAN and LAN ports. It won't do a thing between any of the LAN ports.

 

[ChrisD.]

Good point.