How to Wire a DSL Connection to My Switch
A “switch” is an external hardware device used to wire a DSL connection to several computers at a time. It allows the computers to communicate directly with one another. Depending on the capacity of the Ethernet switch you are using, you can wire your Internet connection to even a dozen computers or more. If you have a fast Internet connection designed for several computers at a time, wiring your DSL connection should not be a problem.
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Instructions
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1
Measure the distance from the computers to the switch. This is for you to know the length of the Ethernet cables you must purchase. Purchase premade “straight-through” Ethernet cables from a local computer store. Have them tested first to ensure that they are functioning and in good condition.
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2
Place the switch near the modem, where it is not very crowded and where a bunch of wires will not be considered unattractive.
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3
Connect one end of the first Ethernet cable to the modem and the other end to the “Internet” port of your switch. Connect the second Ethernet cable to the first port of your switch (usually labeled with numbers) and the other end to the LAN (Local Area Network) port of your first computer.
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4
Attach the third Ethernet cable to the second numbered port of the switch while connecting the other end to the LAN port of your second computer. Do the same with the other computers. Power on the modem, switch and computers.
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5
Ensure that all computers have network adapters installed. Most modern computers come with one installed, but you still need to run the device driver (installation CD) for the device to function. If the drivers are already installed, proceed to the next step.
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6
Configure the IP addresses. Since manual configuration of IP addresses is often error-prone and time-consuming, make use of the “DHCP” settings in Windows. This allows the system to automatically assign IP addresses to the computers in the network. Click “Start” and then “My Network Places.” Click “View Network Connections” and right-click “Local Area Connection.” Click “Properties” and select the “General” tab. Click “Internet Protocol TCP/IP” and select “Properties” located below the menu. Click the option for “Obtain IP address automatically” and “Obtain DNS server automatically.”
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Tips & Warnings
“Straight-through” cables are used when connecting more than two computers to a network using a router or switch, while a “crossover” cable is used when connecting only two computers.
Before connecting the cables in Steps 3 and 4, make sure that your modem, switch and computers are all turned off.
Poor cable connections are most often the cause of network problems. Make sure that all cables are properly connected to their respective ports.
