How to Connect a Linksys Switch to a 2Wire Router

2Wire routers act as both a DSL modem and a wireless router. They include four Ethernet ports on the back which can be used to connect to devices like computers, printers or other routers. The main purpose behind using a Linksys Switch would be to provide more Ethernet ports. A Linksys switch essentially splits the Ethernet ports allowing more devices to be connected. These are commonly used in larger networks such as businesses with many computers throughout the building.

Instructions

1. Connect the 2Wire router to a phone line using the gray phone cord supplied with it. The insulated cord helps ensure a consistent DSL connection. Also connect the supplied power cord. Wait for two minutes for the 2Wire router to finish starting up.

2. Confirm that the power light, DSL light and Internet light are all solid green. Check to ensure that all of the telephones are properly filtered if the DSL light keeps flashing. Call your Internet service provider if the DSL and Internet lights still do not turn solid green after two more minutes.

3. Connect an Ethernet cord from any of the four ports on the 2Wire router to the incoming port on the Linksys switch. Verify that the Ethernet light on the 2Wire router is green now. Also verify that light on the Ethernet port on the Linksys switch is flashing green to indicate that the Ethernet cord is delivering power correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Most Internet service providers require you to store a user name and password in the 2Wire router for it to access the Internet.

• Your Internet service provider may not provide assistance for devices connected to a switch since it is an unsupported configuration as far as they are concerned.