Will a hub work just as good as a switch for my home lan?

[brown234]

I am going to be hooking up 3 computers to my cable modem. I already have 2 computers connected by using 2 nics in one pc and some sharing software. Since I would like to add a third computer I was wondering if I should get a hub or a switch? Thanks.

 

[Wizkid]

If all you want to do is share internet then a hub is fine, but if you start sending large files b/w the 3 computers then you may be happier with a switch as the performance difference will be noticable in that situation.

 

[zuffy]

Get a cheap switch.. you will be happier in the future.

 

[puritan]

After 13 years of LAN experience, you will not see a difference. But, do yourself a big favor and make it a dual speed hub. (10/100) Even in large file transfers, you won't see a difference. Save the money, by the time you need to go further, there will be something newer and cheaper for you.

 

[rootaxs]

I would recommend a switch if you're doing large file transfers between PC's, however with only 3 PC's there won't be that much noticeable difference between a hub and switch imho. I did notice that a switch does wonders when playing LAN games on a highly saturated network

With switch prices going so low nowadays with a $10-$20 difference over a similar hub i'd rather go for the switch.

 

[Slasher7]

make damn sure you get the 100mbit
had my exact same as your setup (ie. 3 pc's on one cable modem) on a 10mbit hub and i had tons of probs

replaced the 10mbit hub with a dual speed switch & now it rocks.

If you're gonna buy something....... buy the switch theres not enough price difference to warrant going with the hub.........