A network switch is a device that connects multiple devices (like PCs, printers, and servers) on a local area network (LAN). It allows these devices to communicate efficiently by forwarding data only to the device that needs it, rather than broadcasting to all devices like a hub would.
To set it up, please see the below guide.
Setting Up A Network Switch
- Power on the switch.
- Connect the switch to your router using an Ethernet cable (plug one end into a LAN port on the router and the other into any port on the switch).
- Connect your PC and other devices to the switch using Ethernet cables.
- Check for connectivity. Your devices should automatically obtain IP addresses from the router and be ready to use.
No software installation or configuration is usually required—most switches are plug-and-play.
What To Be Aware Of
Before you dive in, keep these points in mind:
- Unmanaged vs. Managed Switches
- Unmanaged switches are simple and ideal for home use—just plug and play.
- Managed switches offer advanced features like VLANs, traffic monitoring, and security settings, but require configuration.
- Speed Compatibility
- Make sure your switch supports the same or higher speeds as your router and devices (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet).
- Cable Quality
- Use high-quality Ethernet cables (Cat6 or higher) to ensure optimal performance.