Just to clarify terminology - All a router does is connect (or isolate) two networks.
BUT most home-type routers
INCLUDE a 4-port Ethernet switch in the same box. It is important to understand the router and the 4-port switch are two, discrete, and independent network "appliances" that just happen to be integrated in the same box - just as a sound card or NIC might be integrated with a motherboard.
To that end, there is no such thing as a "wireless router" either. That is a marketing term to indicate the box
ALSO includes a WAP - wireless access point - in the same box.
So with that, you should be able to disable the router feature and use the 4-port switch side but as you note - that will not be at 1Gb speeds. Therefore, if you want full speeds across your network, you will need to add a 1Gb switch. This is a simple process of simply connecting the "upstream" port of the switch to one of the Ethernet ports of the router's integrated switch, then connecting your other network devices to the new 1Gb switch. However, unless you stream video across your network, it is not likely you will see any speed improvement by going to 1Gb. And a 1Gb network does not affect in any way your Internet speeds.
Best place to get cat 6 cables?
Make your own. "
Invest" in a
quality crimping tool. Use good connectors and a tester (optional - but really convenient). In this way, you build your cables the length you need. And if running cables through walls, ceilings, or floors, you don't have to drill huge holes for the connectors. You will certainly ruin several connectors at first until you learn the proper strategic placement of tongue (that's where the tester comes in handy). But once you become proficient, you won't regret it. Your network (and behind your desk) will also look much more tidy, clean, and professional.