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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Yes. A Wi‑Fi router can connect several wired devices through its LAN ports. If you need more wired connections than the router has available, connect an Ethernet switch to a router LAN port, then connect your devices to the switch. Use the LAN side for this; the WAN port has a different job.
What “router as a splitter” means
“Splitter” is often used informally to mean a way to add Ethernet connections. For that purpose, the relevant device is an Ethernet switch: it connects wired devices on the same local network. A router’s main role is to forward traffic between networks and act as a gateway, while a switch links devices within a LAN. Consumer Wi‑Fi routers commonly combine routing, Wi‑Fi, and several wired LAN ports in one unit. The Federal Trade Commission’s description of networking services likewise distinguishes router and switch functions while recognizing that equipment can combine them: FTC court filing on computer networking services.
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NETGEAR Support defines a switch as a device used in a wired network to connect to other devices using Ethernet cables. See What is a switch? An introduction.
Check the router’s LAN ports first
If the router has a free LAN port, connect a wired device directly to it with an Ethernet cable. Router LAN ports are intended for local devices; see NETGEAR’s explanation of what a WiFi router is. If the available ports are already in use, or you need several more, add a switch.
#1 Best Overall
- GIGABIT ETHERNET PORTS: Features 5 x 1.0Gbps Ethernet ports for high-speed connectivity. Auto-negotiating ports detect the optimal speed for connected devices and work with existing Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cables.
- PLUG-AND-PLAY UNMANAGED NETWORK SWITCH: Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration required.
- FLEXIBLE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Compact metal design supports desktop or wall-mount placement for versatile installation.
- SILENT & ENERGY-EFFICIENT OPERATION: Fanless design ensures silent performance, while IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet reduces power consumption without compromising high-speed network performance.
- REGIONAL COMPATIBILITY: Made for use in U.S. & CA only
Connect an Ethernet switch to the LAN
The usual layout is:
Internet or modem → router WAN port; router LAN port → Ethernet switch → wired devices
- Leave the internet or modem connection on the router’s WAN port.
- Connect one Ethernet cable from a router LAN port to a port on the switch.
- Connect each wired device to a remaining switch port.
D-Link says a hub or switch can connect to any LAN port on its router to expand the network: D-Link support: adding computers with a hub or switch. NETGEAR also describes adding Ethernet ports to an existing router with an unmanaged switch; its 8-port example is one configuration, not a requirement: NETGEAR: What is a WiFi Router?
Rank #2
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- 𝗚𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆: Latest innovative energy-efficient technology greatly expands your network capacity with much less power consumption and helps save money.
- 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁: IEEE 802.3X flow control provides reliable data transfer and Fanless design ensures quiet operation.
- 𝗣𝗹𝘂𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆: Easy setup with no software installation or configuration needed.
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Keep WAN and LAN ports straight
The WAN port connects upstream, toward the modem, upstream router, or internet service. LAN ports connect local devices and a downstream switch. They are not interchangeable for this setup. Huawei’s support guidance explains the distinction and the use of a router LAN port to connect a switch: What devices can be connected to the WAN and LAN port?
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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Choose a switch that fits your setup
- Port count: Count the wired devices you want to connect and include one switch port for the cable linking the switch to the router.
- Link speed: Choose speeds compatible with the router and connected devices. A switch does not make a slower router, cable, or device link faster.
- Managed or unmanaged: An unmanaged switch is the simpler home-network option when you just need more ports. Managed switches may require configuration; Google notes that some managed switches need particular settings with its specified Wifi systems: Add Ethernet ports to Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi, or Google Wifi.
Can an old router add ports?
Sometimes, but the setup depends on the router model and its supported modes. Google says that in some cases an old router can provide extra ports instead of a switch, in its guidance for hardwiring Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi, or Google Wifi: Hardwire Nest Wifi Pro, Nest Wifi or Google Wifi with Ethernet. That guidance does not establish that every router will work the same way. Check the specific model’s manual for supported mode and port behavior before using it as a workaround. If you only need additional LAN ports, a switch is the more straightforward option.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One Switch Made to Expand Network-16× 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 Ports supporting Auto Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX
- Gigabit that Saves Energy-Latest innovative energy-efficient technology greatly expands your network capacity with much less power consumption and helps save money
- Reliable and Quiet-IEEE 802.3X flow control provides reliable data transfer and Fanless design ensures quiet operation
- Plug and Play-Easy setup with no software installation or configuration needed
- Advanced Software Features-Prioritize your traffic and guarantee high quality of video or voice data transmission with Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping
Rank #4
- 8 GIGABIT PORTS: Features 8 RJ45 ports supporting 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds, providing high-speed wired network connectivity for computers, printers, gaming consoles, and other Ethernet-enabled devices
- PLUG AND PLAY SETUP: No configuration required; simply connect the switch to your network devices and it is ready to use immediately, making network expansion quick and hassle-free
- FANLESS QUIET DESIGN: The fanless design ensures silent operation, making this switch suitable for noise-sensitive environments such as home offices, bedrooms, or conference rooms
- STURDY METAL CONSTRUCTION: Built with a durable metal housing and shielded ports that provide reliable performance, better heat dissipation, and protection against electromagnetic interference
- TRAFFIC OPTIMIZATION: Supports IEEE 802.3x flow control and advanced traffic optimization technology to reduce data bottlenecks and ensure smooth, efficient data transfer across your network
Rank #3
- GIGABIT ETHERNET PORTS: Features 8 x 1.0Gbps Ethernet ports for high-speed connectivity. Auto-negotiating ports detect the optimal speed for connected devices and work with existing Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cables.
- PLUG-AND-PLAY UNMANAGED NETWORK SWITCH: Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration required.
- FLEXIBLE MOUNTING OPTIONS: Compact metal design supports desktop or wall-mount placement for versatile installation.
- SILENT & ENERGY-EFFICIENT OPERATION: Fanless design ensures silent performance, while IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet reduces power consumption without compromising high-speed network performance.
- REGIONAL COMPATIBILITY: Made for use in U.S. & CA only
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