Old Router Serving As A "Switch" Also ?

[Robert11]

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

 

[UsernameIssues]

...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.

 

[AddRAM]

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.

 

[Robert11]

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

 

[Alejandro85]

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.