You may hear Network Switch and Router Setup & Rack-and-Stack san antonio toss around the terms Ethernet switch, hub, router and wireless LAN (WLAN) almost interchangeably; however, each device performs a unique function on a computer network. In this article, we’ll take a look at the differences between these networking devices so you can make the best choice for your home or business needs.

Network switches expand and optimize a wired local area network (LAN) by connecting multiple devices to the router and each other. They can include security features like a firewall and parental controls for better network safety. They also can use a variety of connector types, from twisted pair ports that plug into Ethernet cables to optical fiber ports that deliver data using light signals.

Elevate Your Network: A Guide to Switch and Router Setup with Rack-and-Stack in San Antonio

Routers connect networks and their devices to the internet by acting as traffic dispatchers. They also allow for connections between different WAN ports on the same router, so you can share a single broadband connection between multiple devices on the same network.

You could technically run a small network without a switch, but you would only be able to connect wired devices like computers and printers. A switch also can’t create a Wi-Fi network and doesn’t connect to the modem, so you’d need to add a router to get online with your devices. This guide will show you how to configure your router as a network switch in just a few simple steps.