What switch to get

[Tbirdan]

What kind of switch should I get for my home network. I need a good 10/100 8-port switch. My network will consist of two normal PCs, a file server, and cable internet, using a coyote linux router (which I'll make). I want an 8 port instead of 5 because I'll have friends of for a LAN party from time to time. I'll also be moving large files across the network, too. But I won't go for gigabit, so don'
t try. It can be unmanaged, and a moderate price. Something under $70. My thoughts were on the Alied Telesyn AT-FS708LE.

 

[bemused]

well you wouldn't need a gigabit network anyways so you shouldn't even have to consider that.

also, you don't necessarily need a switch to do all this with. you can run it off a normal hub, and could possibly be cheaper, because all a switch is pretty much a smart hub.

If you feel inclined to have a switch you could use dlink DSS-8+ or Linksys EZXS88R. They are both reletively cheap switches that should perform admirably for you.

 

[Nighthawk69]

I'd get a switch if you plan on doing LAN parties and so forth. The Linksys 8-port switch has been great to me at LAN parties in the past.

Enjoy.

 

[ktwebb]

Get a switch. I wouldnt even consider a hub these days. THe price difference used to be prohibitive but not really anymore. I suppose if you have only a couple of PC's and you could find a hub that was just ridiculous but to me, hubs are virtually a non issue as a product purchase.

 

[JackMDS]

Here is a nice Switch:

Switch

 

[Tallgeese]

Get a switch. You WILL see a difference transferring large (big huge) file, even on a small network like the one you describe.
If you don't feel like building a router, from time to time 4 port units (with integrated switches) go on sale for $40~$50.

Uplink a CHEEP hub, and you have your port count for much less than $70, plus no need for additional router PC.

HTH

 

[me19562]

SMC have an 8 Port 10/100 Mbps Broadband Router with a built-in print server and the price is around $158 -$185.

 

[mcveigh]

<< SMC have an 8 Port 10/100 Mbps Broadband Router with a built-in print server and the price is around $158 -$185. >>


ditto

or try D-link or netgear for a decent switch, not too expensive

 

[chibimike]

I like the netgear stuff as far as inexpensive networks go.

Here is an 8 porter from netgear: fs108
Haven't actually used this switch, but have found their cards and routers to be fast and reliable.


mike