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I have 6 computers and a wireless printer I would like to network. My router has 4 ports, so I need at least 3 more ports. I have been reading about switches, but I'm still not sure what my best options would be. Frankly I don't understand networking, but would like to connect all the computers and be able to get on any of them thru my main computer. BTW, all the computers are mine, my husbands and granddaughter. Neither of them know anything about computer other than how to get on the net and get their email. I'm the administrator on all the computers.
Right now, they have different OS, but will get them all on Win7 after Oct 22. 1 is a IMac running both Mac and XP, 1 has XP, 2 have Vista and 2 have Win7 R/C.
Thanks
Pat E
Depending on the connection type.
Would you like to connect all the machines by wire, or wireless?If you plan to connect them wireless, you don't need another switch.
If you plan to connect by wire, a simple cheap switch can be connected directly to one of the LAN ports of the router to extend the amount of connections.
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Just and fyi but if the switch doesn't have an uplink port or support mdi/mdix you will need to use a crossover cable not a patch cable.
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No doubt you have a wireless router. How many computers are wireless? USB wireless are low cost and effective to 54mbps.
If you can find one, a simple hub is sufficient to add more ports.
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The router is wireless and all computers are wireless too. One computer is 70 feet from the router.
Now I'm really confused. Since I'm going wireless are you saying I don't need a switch, but a hub instead?
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If you are going wireless no switch/hub required. Paulsep made this clear in his post. 70 feet with walls is a bit much for wireless
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I want to thank all those that replied to my message. Just one more question. The router has 4 ports, but since I'm going wireless, how many computers/printers can I network?
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Depends on the router. Most support up to 40 WiFi devices. some of the newer routers boast unlimited depending on your subletting and DHCP configuration which is set to 254 by default. Just remember the more connections you have the more you have to slice up you bandwith and share it with those connections (i.e. more connections less speed). Simple solution is if you run out or it gets too slow then buy another Wireless access point.
If you are 70 Feet away from the router you may have some signal problems depending on what is between you and the router. Just some thing to keep in mind.
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Just a reminder, the number of wired ports is not relevant in a completely wireless configuration, since they are not used.
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