New router or add a switch? 1

[evosmudge]

Hi,

At the moment, I have a BEFSRU31 that is a 3-port router that connects 3 users to a resedential DSL line. I'm moving to a new place and will need to add another user to share the DSL connection and to share files, and maybe even a printer. We might also use the network connection to play different games.

To get the most out of the DSL connection and file transfer speeds, should I purchase a new switch (5-port) to add the extra ser or replace the old router with a new router that allows 4 ports? Thanks in advance...

evosmudge

 

[kennz]

just get a new switch...it more inexpensive rather than getting a new router...

 

[franklin97355]

I think Linksys has a device with a built in print server you might consider. It means you don't need to leave a computer on to share the printer.

 

[evosmudge]

So if I just add a switch, it would still function the same way as getting a new 4-port router? I'm just worried about losing connection speeds with the users connected to the switch. Would the users connected to the individual ports on the router have a faster network connection than the users sharing a port with the switch?

 

[franklin97355]

No, that's why you go with a switch over a hub.

 

[bcastner]

evosmudge,

The latency introduced by the switch (as opposed to adding a larger router) is quite small; and with only one user on the switch, if I read you right, insignificant.

 

[evosmudge]

Thanks for all the replies. I will go with the switch since it is cheaper than buying a new router unless I find one that goes on sale this weekend.