Daisy-chain systems via NICs?

[BCinSC]

I've got 20+ systems and only a 16port switch. Several systems have 2 network cards. Can I use the 2nd port to connect to other systems and give them access to switch via 1st port?

 

[Matthias99]

Of course. A router is nothing more than a simple computer with two or more NICs and software that knows how to bridge them.

Search for "Internet Connection Sharing" if you're using Windows.

 

[Gunbuster]

It will be a managment nightmare just buy a second switch, they cost ~$100 these days

 

[BCinSC]

I thought ICS blew? I could get another switch, but that's more power and cables.

 

[Matthias99]

Originally posted by: BCinSC
I thought ICS blew?

Generally, yes, it's not great (although it does work), but that wasn't your question, now was it? 😛

I could get another switch, but that's more power and cables.

Power Over Ethernet? Don't know if your switch supports it, though.

Can't you get a couple little 4-port hubs or switches or something?

 

[BCinSC]

Does ICS always require 2 NICs?

 

[overclock]

Originally posted by: BCinSC
Does ICS always require 2 NICs?

How else would you do ICS (Internet Connection Sharing)? Kind of hard to share the internet with only one NIC. If you really want to reduce the cables and power just go wireless.