An Ethernet switch is what allows multiple computers to connect to one Internet connection. It serves the same purpose as a network hub, but with an Ethernet switch, you have the ability to manage the traffic that passes through it. You can find Ethernet switches that are stand alone devices for home or office use, or you can find those that are rack mounted and can handle a large network. Ethernet switches will vary widely in their capabilities of traffic management, so remember to clearly define your requirements before picking a unit. Let's look at how to install an Ethernet switch.
Start by connecting your modem to the Internet line. No matter if you have DSL, cable or satellite Internet, the modem is what brings the signal to your computer or network of computers. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the modem. Most Ethernet cables you'll work with will be a Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable. Connect the Ethernet switch to the slot one in the modem. This makes it easier to tell the cables apart.
Connect the other end of your cable to a different slot on your Ethernet switch. Connect the other end of the cable to the computer you are connecting to the Internet.
Additional cables can be attached to other Ethernet switches and connected to other computers. You could conceivably connect a whole network of computers for a large business, or even several family computers for a home setup. If you're setting up a large network, consider using Ethernet switches that are higher end and give you more control over bandwidth. This will help mitigate latency and allow for greater bandwidth to your systems, providing the flow where you need it the most.
Like the arteries in the circulatory system, Ethernet switches create many routes for your Internet to multiple computers. They give you control over the flow so you can provide considerable bandwidth to a large, complex network. The quality of Ethernet switch you need depends on the complexity of your computer system configurations.
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