Best "Switch" to split AC66U signal?

[BJ1200]

Best "Switch" or "Router" to split AC66U signal?

Hi All,

Can someone recommend a reliable device that will split the internet signal (using cable) to connect other media devices? It's unclear and confusing to me if I need a "router" or "switch".

My AC66 is fine, this one is my Sister's Xmas presents. I will run a hard line from her AC66U into their living room. I need to "split" this to the ethernet ports on her new TV, ROKU, Onkyo, and BD player.

I also need to create some sort of "Guest" account when her friends visit.

 

[RMerlin]

If you just want more Ethernet ports beyond the four ports on the router, then what you need is a network switch. Any inexpensive Gigabit network switch would be fine (I use a cheap TP-Link myself), just keep in mind you will need one port on both the router and the switch to uplink them together.

 

[BJ1200]

Thank you sir. After a few hours of research, this seems to be the ticket. Although released in 2010, this D-Link DGS‑1008G has the best reviews (210/5 stars, Only 6/1 star) by far out of all the 5 and 8 port switches. Their 2012 newer "Greener" model has few reviews..that are not so good.

 

[Nerre]

A network switch is really a very basic device so for home use I would go for one of the cheaper models of a well known brand. (I even use two 8-port switches of a not very well known brand at home and haven't had any problems with them).

The most common problem for a network switch today seems to be a failing power supply. The second most common problem is overheating due to bad placement.

 

[BJ1200]

...The most common problem for a network switch today seems to be a failing power supply. The second most common problem is overheating due to bad placement.

Good point. I noticed on several "Green" units they are moving the power supply to a brick in the cord, like a laptop. They pitch "less heat and longer lifespan" of the device.

 

[wvaj]

ASUS switch

Here is the one I'm running at home. No issues with it what so ever.

http://www.amazon.com/8-Port-Gigabit-Switch-GX-D1081-V2/dp/B005LPLPRQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1355367850&sr=8-1&keywords=asus+switch

 

[Nerre]

Good point. I noticed on several "Green" units they are moving the power supply to a brick in the cord, like a laptop. They pitch "less heat and longer lifespan" of the device.

All devices I have use a direct plug-in power supply. But even those can fail, I know Linksys for example have had a reputation of bad power supplies. They were replaced on warranty, but it's frustrating anyway.

 

[LoneWolf]

I use Netgear Prosafe switches. Nice, well-built metal boxes that do the job without being super-expensive.

I have one eight-port gig switch (GS108) and one four-port gig-switch (GS104) hanging off my AC66U, and they work fine. Bought both off Ebay, one used, one factory-refurbished, and shaved some more off the retail price.

 

[somms]

I use Netgear Prosafe switches. Nice, well-built metal boxes that do the job without being super-expensive.

I have one eight-port gig switch (GS108) and one four-port gig-switch (GS104) hanging off my AC66U, and they work fine. Bought both off Ebay, one used, one factory-refurbished, and shaved some more off the retail price.

Got the GS108Tv2 myself and it is a nice switch if not a tad bit overkill.
Do like the fact that Netgear seems to keep the firmware updates for this hardware updated regulary it is now up to Firmware Version 5.0.5.7!