I try to hard wire as many devices as possible, thinking (rightly or wrongly) that I'll get more consistent speeds with my internet rather than using wi-fi only. As a result I've run out of ethernet ports on the back of my Airport Extreme.
I'd like to run an ethernet cable to the basement for an iMac, printer and security system. Does anyone have a cheap and cheerful solution?
Preliminary research suggests I need an ethernet switch rather than a hub?

Suggestions?

Thanks in advance

get a gigabit switch.

TRENDnet TEG-S80G GREENnet 10/100/1000 8 Port Gigabit Switch RoHS - TRENDnet - TEG-S80G (http://www.ncix.ca/products/?sku=36827&vpn=TEG%2DS80G&manufacture=TRENDnet)

that one sometimes goes on sale for about $24

Right just grab a switch and you are good to go. Given the cost of the gigabit versions now you might as well get the higher speed version.

Just remember if you want gigabit speed you need cat-5e or cat 6 cables...

BReligion

Just remember if you want gigabit speed you need cat-5e or cat 6 cables...

BReligion

I think you can't buy cat5 anymore. All of it is cat5e.

I think you can't buy cat5 anymore. All of it is cat5e.

Most of the time yes, you are correct you cannot buy it. It's still out there tho and not easily distinguishable between 5 and 5e (unless you read the cable)...

On a personal note, i have a storage bin i have full of misc cables (usb, ethernet, serial, ps2), most of it is Cat 5e, but there are a few in there that are Cat 5... never throw out a good cable, even if it's old :)

BReligion

Most of the time yes, you are correct you cannot buy it. It's still out there tho and not easily distinguishable between 5 and 5e (unless you read the cable)...

On a personal note, i have a storage bin i have full of misc cables (usb, ethernet, serial, ps2), most of it is Cat 5e, but there are a few in there that are Cat 5... never throw out a good cable, even if it's old :)

BReligion

And always toss an old cable if you know it is bad.

If you are not sure a piece of tape wit a question mark on it will remind you to test it before trying to use it.:)

And always toss an old cable if you know it is bad.

If you are not sure a piece of tape wit a question mark on it will remind you to test it before trying to use it.:)

Agreed. I always toss iffy cables - if the connector is coming detached, if the cable is cut at all, etc. Any whiff of uncertainty gets it tossed. They're too cheap to spend time troubleshooting.

Agreed as well... doubt = trash can.

Well.. okay, if there is some doubt just about the connector (and it's a nice long cable <15 feet), cut the end(s), recrimp and test.. if its still bad (ie break in the cable), then it gets tossed.


BReligion

Thanks for all the info!