Wired Networking - Can i do this?

[Abz Hussain]

So, i have one remaining port left on my Ethernet router. I need to run a cable from this port in my room upstairs to downstairs in the living room where i need to connect to two devices.

What i want to know is what is the best way to give my two devices downstairs a wired connection by running only the one cable downstairs. Do i/can i need to plug that one cable into say an ethernet switch and then run two cables to the two devices from said switch or is there another easier and possibly cheaper solution?

Thank you

P.S Homeplug/Powerline not an option.

 

[Abz Hussain]

As you've said, a switch plugged into the port and plug both devices into that is probably the easiest/cheapest method.

Yes you can

You shouldn't even need a cross over cable between the router and switch

Thank you. Just to confirm then, i would plug one end of the ethernet cable into the free port upstairs. Then i would route the cable to where i need it (about 25M) where i would plug it into the SWITCH and then from the switch i can plug two separate cables into the two devices that need wired networking?

On a different topic, can anyone tell me whether the flat/ribbon type of cable is robust enough or if i just should stick to the normal round ethernet cable?

For a gigabit ethernet network is cat 6 necessary or will 5e suffice?

thank you

 

[Abz Hussain]

Have a look at the price difference between Cat5e and Cat6, especially if the cable is going to be routed permanently.

I have done, not that much difference to be honest thats why i asked originally as i was not too sure

 

[Abz Hussain]

If the cable's going to be in permanent, you might want to go with Cat6 incase 10Gb becomes mainstream. I'd go with Cat6 anyway if the price is similar, better quality cable.

Not going to be permanent. Will run some white cable along the skirting and door frames- thats my only option for now.

whilst im here, anyone care to recommend at good switch maybe a 5 port one?