Old Router Serving As A "Switch" Also ?


  1. Posts : 542
    Windows 7 64bit
       #1

    Old Router Serving As A "Switch" Also ?


    Hello,

    I want to run two PC's in my home.

    I have a Comcast box feeding my (old) Router.

    I bought a GigaBit Switch ("TP-LINK TL-SG1005D) as was suggested (not received yet) but just noticed
    that my quite old Cisco/LinkSys EA3500 Router has several output Ethernet Ports.

    Unfortunately, I cannot find the manual for it.

    Is it likely that this Router also serves as a "Switch," and all I have to do is run an Ethernet cable from two of its Ports to the two desktop PC's ? Both PC's would be in operation at the same time, and would
    require simultaneous (using term loosely) internet access.

    And there is no need for the "Switch" I ordered ?

    Or, should I use one Router Port to feed the "Switch," and then take off two Ethernet cables
    from the new Switch to go to each PC ? Necessary ? Better ?

    Thanks, as always,
    Bob
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 10,485
    W7 Pro SP1 64bit
       #2

    Robert11 said:
    ...my quite old Cisco/LinkSys EA3500 Router has several output Ethernet Ports.

    Unfortunately, I cannot find the manual for it.
    ~~~
    This user guide might help you:
    Linksys Official Support - Linksys EA3500 N750 Dual-Band Smart Wi-Fi Wireless Router

    You should be able to connect the both computers as you indicated.

    You should not need a new switch.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 13,576
    Windows 10 Pro x64
       #3

    Yes you can go straight from the router to your PC`s

    I send a cable to a switch in the basement even though I have at least 4 open ports on my router, then to another switch on the 2nd floor, they were free so :)

    Necassary = No
    Better = No

    Convenient = Yes


    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router_(computing)

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_switch

    If it wasn`t too expensive, I`d keep it, you might need it someday, or just add it to the network as soon as you get it.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 542
    Windows 7 64bit
    Thread Starter
       #4

    From OP:


    Hi all,

    Just a quick thanks for taking the time to help
    me out. Nice of you both, and am very appreciative.

    Hate to admit it, but now at my age, a lot of these nuances escape me.
    But, was never sharp with Routers and Networks, I also admit.

    Thanks again,
    Bob
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 2,464
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #5

    It's entirely possible to do so. In fact every router can also act as a switcher in addition to performing NAT routing and serving as a modem.

    Simply plug all computers to the LAN ports and leave the WAN one empty and it will serve as a switch. No special configuration is normally needed for this.
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 21:37.
Find Us