If you have four or less computers that you need to hardwire, you’ll just need a router. If you have more than four, you’ll likely need to get a switch to extend the number of ports available on your router.

Network switches do not allow wireless devices to connect, and can only be used for hardwired LANs or to extend the number of ports available to the router.

A router will automatically handle assigning IP addresses to each device on the network, and is necessary if you intend to share your internet connection with all the connected devices. It is highly recommended that you build your network with a router, even if you’re not sharing an internet connection. A network switch is like a simpler version of a router. It will allow connected devices to talk to each other, but will not automatically assign IP addresses and will not share an internet connection. Switches are best used to expand the number of LAN ports available on the network, as they can be connected to the router.

Ethernet cables cannot reliably transfer data at lengths larger than 100m (328 ft).

You can quickly create a DHCP server on one of your computers by installing a third-party utility. The rest of the computers on the network will obtain IP addresses automatically once the server is running, as long as they are set to do so.

For easy troubleshooting, the router should usually be placed close to your modem. It should be located centrally to allow for maximum wireless coverage. You’ll need to connect a computer to the router via Ethernet during the setup process.

Windows - Right-click the Network button in the System Tray → click Open Network and Sharing Center → click the Ethernet link → click Details → find the Default Gateway entry for your router’s IP address. Mac - Click the Apple menu and select System Preferences → click Network → click your Ethernet connection → find the Router entry for your router’s IP address.

You can look up your router model at https://portforward. com/router-password/ to find the default login information.

Computers connected to the router via Ethernet will not require a password.