Content

• To step

This wikiHow teaches you how to add Ethernet ports to your router. You can easily add ports to your local network with a network switch.

To step

1. Buy a switch. There are a few things to keep in mind when buying a switch.
   • Make sure the switch has more ports than you need.
   • Make sure the switch is capable of transferring data at least as fast as your router. For example, if you have a 100mbps router, you need a switch capable of at least 100mbps. A slower router will slow down your network.
2. Connect the AC adapter from the switch. Find a free power outlet near your router and connect the switch with the included AC adapter.
3. Connect the switch to the router. Use an ethernet cable connected to one of the ports on your router and connect it to the switch. Some switches have a special port called an uplink port to connect to your router. Other switches have automatic uplink capabilities that allow you to connect any available port to the switch.
4. Connect your devices to the switch. Connect your devices with Ethernet cables to the ports on the switch. With the switch connected to your router, your devices are now ready to connect to the internet.
   • If you have a switch that is faster than your router, the devices connected to it can transfer data to each other faster than they can transfer data from the internet.