New router or add a switch?

[divuk83]

I'm looking at getting either a gigabit switch to supplement my ADSL router or an ADSL router to replace my BE box that supports gigabit networking if such a product exists? Would I be better off getting a separate switch? Has anyone got any recommendations as to what to get. I don't really want to get a cheapo one as I have had several routers die on me over the years. Is it worth getting a "smart one" over an un-managed one?

Cheers

Dave

 

[divuk83]

I think the standard Be box is pretty poor as it frequently drops the line and shows as "network cable disconnected" on my computers. I can't imagine it does a very good job of LAN duties either. I'm quite interested in an upgrade as I'm going to try steaming FLAC using upnp to my new hifi, going for gigabit seemed like a sensible option if I'm going to be purchasing a new switch. Any recommendations for a new switch would be welcomed and it would take away the need for the Be box to do any LAN work.

Dave

 

[divuk83]

Thanks for all your help. I have ordered a HP Procurve 140-8g to use with my bebox. I'm not overly impressed with Netgear, I had an ADSL router of theirs that died just outside of the warranty a few years ago and like the look of the impressive warranty on the HP switch. Will stick with the bebox for now an try some newer firmware to see if it improves things.

Cheers

Dave