You can get more than four connections from your cable router by linking it to an Ethernet switch with Ethernet cables. Ethernet switches are devices with four or more Ethernet cable ports that use Ethernet cables to connect routers and computers together. By installing an Ethernet switch, you can increase the amount of computers or devices on your local access network, or LAN, that can access your cable router.
Step 1
Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your router. Plug the other end of the cable into "Port 1" of the Ethernet switch. If you had to remove an Ethernet plug from Port 1, insert it into a port on the Ethernet switch.
Step 2
Push the "Uplink" button or switch if your router has one. If it does not, insert the Ethernet cable into the dedicated uplink port.
Step 3
Plug in the power cord of the Ethernet switch and allow it to turn on. Plug Ethernet cables into the ports on the switch and into the computers you want to add to it. Most Ethernet switches are plug-and-play devices and will not require the installation of drivers on your computer. However, if your Ethernet switch came with an installation CD-ROM, insert it into your computer and install the software. Follow the instructions on the screen to configure your Ethernet switch.
Tips & Warnings
- Place the Ethernet switch near your router or stack it on top of your router if possible.
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privacy & security protectedReferences
- Asante: Adding More Ports
- Speed Guide.net: How to Expand the Number of Ports on a Router ?
