Router ports vs Switch ports

Kayeye

Distinguished
Mar 6, 2011
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I don't have a home network set up but I do have several devices that require a wired connection to the net. I've been using the ports on the back of my wireless router but I was wondering if there would be any benefit to using a switch for the connections instead of using the router or if both serve the same function.
 
Solution


A router is a smarter device than a switch.
It serves as a DHCP server, and handles internal IP addresses for your devices.
192.168.1.xxx
Home routers generally have 4 ports on the back.

If you need more devices wired, this is where a switch comes into play.

So on the router, ports 1-4.
1, 2, 3 are used by devices. PC, TV, whatever
But you have 6 other things that need to be wired.

Enter the switch. An 8 port...

USAFRet

Titan
Moderator


A router is a smarter device than a switch.
It serves as a DHCP server, and handles internal IP addresses for your devices.
192.168.1.xxx
Home routers generally have 4 ports on the back.

If you need more devices wired, this is where a switch comes into play.

So on the router, ports 1-4.
1, 2, 3 are used by devices. PC, TV, whatever
But you have 6 other things that need to be wired.

Enter the switch. An 8 port switch...one port going to the available router port, and your other 6 devices plugged into the switch ports.

The upstream router still handles all the IP addresses. The switch provides more ports.
There are a few other things it does, but that is the basics.
 
Solution