How does a network switch work..?

[Pitbrew]

So if i use my 20m cat 6 cable to connect to the net, because its bad wireless, and then i have friends over, and i plug my longer cable into the switch, then we all plug our computers into the switch, will we all get net? and if so will it be slowed between us?

Thanks in advance

 

[DeathAndPain]

Yes, all computers connected to the switch will be connected to the internet. However, in order to assign local IP addresses to all these PCs, you need a so-called DHCP server. This is not something to worry about though, because pretty much all internet routers include a DHCP server, so in your case it will most likely be plug and play. Any additional PC you plug into the switch will get an individual IP assigned to by your router. Needless to say that your router should also be connected to the switch.

And of course, as far as accessing the internet is concerned, all connected PCs will share your connection, which may result in performance drops. For internet games these are usually minimal, since games do not transfer much data, but if one of your friends decides to download a video, there may be trouble.

 

[Pitbrew]

Yes, all computers connected to the switch will be connected to the internet. However, in order to assign local IP addresses to all these PCs, you need a so-called DHCP server. This is not something to worry about though, because pretty much all internet routers include a DHCP server, so in your case it will most likely be plug and play. Any additional PC you plug into the switch will get an individual IP assigned to by your router. Needless to say that your router should also be connected to the switch.

And of course, as far as accessing the internet is concerned, all connected PCs will share your connection, which may result in performance drops. For internet games these are usually minimal, since games do not transfer much data, but if one of your friends decides to download a video, there may be trouble.

Thank you very much, that will save me going ahead to buy more long cables for if i have friends over 😀.