Home Network 101: Router + Switch Setup Made Simple

Home Network 101: Router + Switch Setup Made Simple

If you’ve ever wished you could plug in more than one device with Ethernet—PC, TV, game console, NAS, or a work laptop—this is where a network switch becomes your best friend.

A router gives you internet.
A switch helps you share wired internet to multiple devices—cleanly and reliably.

Here’s the simplest “Router + Switch” setup, explained with zero jargon.

Router vs Switch (one-minute explanation)

Router = the “internet manager”

Your router connects your home to the internet and creates your Wi-Fi network.

Switch = the “Ethernet splitter”

A switch adds more Ethernet ports so you can plug in multiple wired devices.

✅ Most homes need a switch when:

  • you run out of router Ethernet ports

  • you want more stable connections for several devices

The easiest setup (works for almost everyone)

Step 1: Router → Switch

Plug one Ethernet cable from your router (LAN port) to any port on your switch.

✅ This gives the switch internet.

Step 2: Switch → Your devices

Plug Ethernet cables from the switch to:

  • your desktop computer

  • smart TV

  • gaming console

  • NAS (storage)

  • streaming / work devices

✅ Now all devices get stable wired internet.

Step 3: Keep Wi-Fi (yes, you still use it)

Your Wi-Fi still works normally through the router.
The switch doesn’t replace Wi-Fi—it just expands wired connections.

What switch should you buy? (simple guide)

Unmanaged switch = best for beginners

“Unmanaged” means:

  • no settings

  • plug-and-play

  • it just works

✅ Recommended for most homes.

How many ports?

Count your devices and add 1–2 extra:

  • 5-port switch = small setup

  • 8-port switch = best sweet spot

  • 16-port switch = bigger home office / many devices

✅ Tip: Always leave one extra port for “future you.”

Where to place it (so it looks clean)

Best places:

  • near the router (easy)

  • on a small shelf (looks tidy)

  • in a “network corner” with labels

To keep it calm and minimal:

  • use short Ethernet cables where possible

  • route cables along one path

  • label the ends (router / switch / TV / PC)

Quick troubleshooting (if something doesn’t work)

If a device has no internet:

  1. check the Ethernet cable is fully seated

  2. try a different port on the switch

  3. restart the device

  4. restart the router (last)

✅ Most issues are simply a loose cable or wrong port.

Shop-friendly CTA (you can paste into Shopify)

Want stable wired internet for multiple devices? Add a simple plug-and-play network switch and the right Ethernet cables. Explore our Networking & Ethernet collection for switches, short cables, couplers, and clean setup accessories.

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