Can I use network switch to connect multiple computers to internet?

[dave2849]

Currently I have my dsl modem in my basement with 1 computer connected to it via ethernet cable. I want to connect two computers in my upstairs bedrooms to the internet by using a network switch with multiple ports. I was thinking of running an ethernet cable upstairs, connecting it to a network switch and then connecting the two upstairs computers to the switch. Is it possible to do this using a network switch? Is there another best option? Lastly, would it be possible to do this exact same thing running an ethernet cable from the modem to an upstairs wireless router and then having the two upstairs computers connect wirelessly. Unfortunately, I was a bit impulsive and already ordered the network switch without doing my research. I appreciate any help.

 

[VirtualLarry]

Is your DSL modem, just a DSL modem, or a combo DSL modem/router?

Because, you need a router to share internet, a switch won't do the job.

If it is a DSL modem/router combo, then yes, you can just add a switch to add more computers, and the router config in the DSL modem will assign private IPs to your LAN computers on the switch.

Otherwise, you will need to purchase a router, and connect that between the DSL modem and the switch. You can connect another router, configured as an access point, to a switch port to use wireless upstairs.

 

[JackMDS]

Assuming that the DSL Modem is not a Modem/Router combo.

Since you are going to run a cable, run two together.

Get A Wireless Router connect one cable form the Modem to The Router's Internet side.

Then connect the second cable to one of the Router regular port and to the computer in the basement.

 

[richaron]

Currently I have my dsl modem in my basement with 1 computer connected to it via ethernet cable.

I was under the impression that all modems with an ethernet port are also routers... In which case you can just patch it into the switch.

Edit: wouldn't dream of arguing with Mr. Mod, just trying to clarify

 

[kornphlake]

I was under the impression that all modems with an ethernet port are also routers... In which case you can just patch it into the switch.

Edit: wouldn't dream of arguing with Mr. Mod, just trying to clarify

You're under the wrong impression all modems have an Ethernet port that doesn't mean all modems are routers, only modems with multiple Ethernet ports would have a router. I've had both dsl and cable modems that were only modems and only passed a single public ip to a single device.

 

[richaron]

You're under the wrong impression all modems have an Ethernet port that doesn't mean all modems are routers, only modems with multiple Ethernet ports would have a router. I've had both dsl and cable modems that were only modems and only passed a single public ip to a single device.

Ok thanks, even just one example ruins my theory. Though I think you might be a bit off with your thinking as well, I used my old adsl modem (single ethernet port) hooked straight into a switch & it worked fine for multiple computers.

 

[dave2849]

Thanks everyone, my dsl modem is also a router so I should be okay.