How to Connect a Network Switch to a Wireless Router

You can expand the wired part of your network by using an Ethernet switch.

Wireless routers are used to allow several computers to connect to a network via radio signals. Typically, wireless routers allow both wired and wireless connections to the network. However, if more wired connections are required than the router can support, you may choose to add an Ethernet switch to the network. Connecting a network switch to a wireless router allows the wired part of the network to expand quickly and easily.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless router
• Ethernet switch
• Two Ethernet cables (Category 5, 5e or 6)
• Computer with installed wired network adapter

Instructions

1. Plug one end of the first Ethernet cable into one of the free ports on the router.

2. Plug the other end of the first Ethernet cable into Port 1 on the Ethernet switch. Plug one end of the second Ethernet cable into one of the free ports on the Ethernet switch.

3. 

   A wired network adapter has an interface that looks like this.

   Plug the other end of the second Ethernet cable into the computer network adapter. Open a Web browser window and type in the router's IP address, typically http://192.168.1.1 (see Tips). If you are prompted for a user name and password, the Ethernet switch is connected properly. If not, verify that the Ethernet cable connections are snug.

Tips & Warnings

• Most (but not all) wireless routers use 192.168.1.1 as their IP address. Check the router owner's manual for the correct address.

References

• Cisco: Linksys EtherFast 10/100 16-Port Workgroup Switch User Guide
• Microsoft: Four Steps to Set Up Your Home Wireless Network