Routers and Ethernet switches

[rocky]

Ok computer smart guys, I've just opened my own operation. Here is my computer networking question for you.

We currently a little cramped for space and three of us are using a large conference room. There is a single internet plug which is live and we've successfully connected to the web through that directly from our laptops.

Since us three want to all work at the same time, should I be using a router between the laptops and the wall socket or an ethernet switch?

My gut intinct is that the switch is all we need, as the routing part of the network is elsewhere.

Currently planning on three people plus at least one printer.

Thanks

[carguy07]

Switch will do the trick for the internet. Not sure about printing, I used a router when I shared a printer. I think the newer operating systems will let you set up a network without a router.

[whizmo]

I you want to share the internet connection, you need a router. A switch will allow you to network your computers, but not share the internet connection.

- Mark

[N_Jay]

I love all the "definite" answers.

The truth is "it depends".
It depend on what is supporting that connection.
Assuming it is a router providing DHCP and NAT all you need is a switch.

If it is just a hard Internet connection, then you need a router.

Most routers can be set up in a dumb (switch-like) mode.

Tell us where the connection comes from and we can make a better guess.

(and ignore anyone who "knows" the answer.)

[rocky]

Our scenario is this.

We're subletting space from a company whose existing internet is all wired in. It was literally plug in and play to get up and running yesterday.

We'll have the three of us for now plus a printer (or two)

[N_Jay]

Originally posted by rocky
Our scenario is this.

We're subletting space from a company whose existing internet is all wired in. It was literally plug in and play to get up and running yesterday.

We'll have the three of us for now plus a printer (or two)

You could ask, but I would try a switch first.
You should be able to get a 5 to 8 port 1 gb switch for $30 to $50. (Less if you are a bargain hunter)

If you start with a router you run the risk of some of its functions causing issues with the network.

If you have a friend who knows what they are doing you could get a router and then adjust settings, even all the way down to acting like a switch, if that is what is needed.

[jcantanixon]

N Jay is two for two on his posts in this thread.

More than likely, you can just buy a small switch and you'll be off and running.

[hondapilotjim]

Originally posted by N_Jay
I love all the "definite" answers.

The truth is "it depends".
It depend on what is supporting that connection.
Assuming it is a router providing DHCP and NAT all you need is a switch.

If it is just a hard Internet connection, then you need a router.

Most routers can be set up in a dumb (switch-like) mode.

Tell us where the connection comes from and we can make a better guess.

(and ignore anyone who "knows" the answer.)

LMFAO!!!!
what will this planet do when you are gone O GREAT ONE???

[N_Jay]

Originally posted by hondapilotjim

LMFAO!!!!
what will this planet do when you are gone O GREAT ONE???

What makes me so great. I am so stupid I need to know the facts before providing answers.

Others are not so encumbered and are smart enough to provide answers without needed information.

[rocky]

Well after all that I found a newer router in my workshop. It went into retirement when Verizon took over from comcast at home.

A linksys 54g, which is working perfectly, all locked up and secured. It will serve us wirelessly as well as having a hardwired printer.

Cost $0

[jcantanixon]

Originally posted by rocky
Well after all that I found a newer router in my workshop. It went into retirement when Verizon took over from comcast at home.

A linksys 54g, which is working perfectly, all locked up and secured. It will serve us wirelessly as well as having a hardwired printer.

Cost $0

Good job meeting your needs for no cost.

FYI - It would be courteous to let the network admin know that you added a wireless access point to the network, and let him know what method(s) you used to secure it.

[rocky]

Originally posted by jcantanixon


Good job meeting your needs for no cost.

FYI - It would be courteous to let the network admin know that you added a wireless access point to the network, and let him know what method(s) you used to secure it.

Thanks for a good idea. There are several open wireless networks in our building already.....

[hondapilotjim]

Originally posted by N_Jay


What makes me so great. I am so stupid I need to know the facts before providing answers.

Others are not so encumbered and are smart enough to provide answers without needed information.

hey, i was thinking about putting GOD back into my life.are you available?

[N_Jay]

Originally posted by hondapilotjim


hey, i was thinking about putting GOD back into my life.are you available?

You had better check with one of the guys with divine knowledge.

Who wants a God that keeps asking then questions?

[rocky]

Update: All working well.
We added a Brother MFC 8480DN multi function to the network and I'm quite impressed with it.

For $330 I'm tempted to get one for home.