What's a switch?

[Shoes_Buttback03]

I'm looking to get online with my 360 and I'm looking at routers but I also see something called a switch. What is that? And what is the difference between a switch and a router? Thanks.

 

[Sedako]

Switches are usually used in larger network settings, and they allow fast and efficient communication of network nodes. For your use, just stick to consumer routers. The Linksys WRT54GL is probably your best bet for a cheap and effective router.

 

[Shoes_Buttback03]

Switches are usually used in larger network settings, and they allow fast and efficient communication of network nodes. For your use, just stick to consumer routers. The Linksys WRT54GL is probably your best bet for a cheap and effective router.

Larger network? I'm only going to be sharing my connection with my PC. In this case just a wired router will be good ya?

 

[Sedako]

Larger network? I'm only going to be sharing my connection with my PC. In this case just a router will be good ya?

Yes, just stick with a router like the one I linked.

 

[Shoes_Buttback03]

Well, not that one. I'm going to get a wired router. Thanks super much I can't wait to get online with my 360 and play tf2. :E

 

[Sedako]

Well, not that one. I'm going to get a wired router. Thanks super much I can't wait to get online with my 360 and play tf2. :E

That router is both wired and wireless. I would strongly suggest getting a wireless capable router now (if you can afford it) in case you get wireless device in the future, that way you won't have to invest in a new router.

 

[giant384]

ah....reminds me of the days when child abuse laws werent proposed

 

[Asus]

But make sure you know how to disable or block mac address/encrypt the wireless if you do get a wireless.

 

[VirusType2]

a switch is very important if you will be using internet with more than one device at the same time. otherwise, the exact data (downloads, for example) is sent to all devices, requiring that each computer decide if it requested the data. Redundant. The switch sends the data only to the appropriate device that requested it.

More accurate and a more detailed explanation can be found if you search for it on the internet.

 

[Asus]

Just think of a switch as a way to add more PC spots to access the internet. The router and modem is how you get on the net though.