How to Use a Switch in a Network

A network switch is used to connect computers and other devices to a wired local network. Ethernet cables are usually used with network switches, but some switches also have fiber-optic ports. Wired gigabit networks with switches are much faster than traditional wireless networks. With some minimal setup and configuration, a network switch can be up and running in a short time.

Instructions:

>>Determine what speed switch you need. Many switches can only go to speeds of 100 Mbps, while some gigabit switches can get up to 1000 Mbps. To decide on a speed, find out if the computer(s) you're connecting are capable of going at gigabit speeds. If so, a gigabit switch is best

>>Determine if you want any advanced features. More advanced switches can accommodate more than one network (on one physical switch) through virtual local area networking (VLAN)

>>Determine how many ports you need on the switch. The number of ports should be equal to, or greater than, the number of computers that you are connecting.

>>Configure your switch. Connect a computer to the switch using the IP address found in the switch manual. Set up the IP address for the switch, network address and netmask.

>>Configure the VLANs, if necessary. Decide which port goes to which VLAN, and configure the switch appropriately.

>>Connect a cable from the uplink port to the rest of the network. Many newer switches can detect the uplink connection from any port. Use either an orange crossover or Ethernet cable

>>Connect Ethernet cables from the computers to the switch's ports. If multiple VLANs are being used, make sure the computers are on the correct VLAN.

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o Hard code the settings, if necessary. Most computers automatically negotiate the switch's settings. If hard coding is necessary, log into the switch and hard code the settings on a per port basis.