[NTLUG:Discuss] Router or switch?

[Rob Apodaca]

On Sat, 3 May 2003 07:00:22 -0500
Michael Farnham <mfarnham at acm.org> wrote:

> I have 2 linux computers and a windows computer that Iwant to network.
> I do not intend to share an internet connection. Do I need a router or a
> switch? Do either of these require a crossover cable?

Michael,

You can use a hub or a switch. Both are very similiar in what they do - the
lesser expensive is a hub. Switches provide better network performance than
hubs but, I have found that hubs can work just fine in most situations.

You will only need a crossover cable if you intend to uplink two or more
hubs/switches which do not have uplink ports OR if you intend to connect two
computers directly together - with no hub/switch in between.

Routers are for connecting different networks together. Since you will be
using one network, a router is not required.

The bottom line; just get a hub and you'll be fine.

Hope this helps.

-Rob