Question Which is faster? Switch or multiple NICs

[MrN1ce9uy]

If I have a server that I want to connect 5 workstations to access a central database, would it be better to use a layer 2 switch or enough network interface cards on the server for all the workstations to connect directly to the server? The workstations probably won't be talking to each others, just the server.

 

[jsmithepa]

If all the workstations are talking to the same set of files, anything you do would have minimum impact, you are limited by relatively slow HDDs.

But OK, lets assume you have super file server, 10,000 RPM drives, access from the 5 workstations accessing files scattered over several physical drives, lightening fast, money no object sized cache.... using 5 independent, dedicated 1 gig connection trumps a single 1 gig switch connection, which is share amongst all users

 

[MrN1ce9uy]

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. It just doesn't seem practical. But with only 5 systems it does seem doable. The database will probably reside on a very fast PCIe SSD. (there goes one PCIe slot)