How do I turn my Wireless Router into a Switch? 7 Critical Differences

How do I turn my wireless router into a switch? Today’s homes are filled with connected devices. Smartphones, tablets, smart thermostats, security cameras, streaming video services, and more all demand a lot of bandwidth.

That’s why many homes have several Wi-Fi routers to create separate networks for different users and connected devices. Each router usually has three or more LAN ports which are perfect for connecting computers and other networked devices.

How do I turn my Wireless Router into a Switch?

However, the switch on a Wi-Fi router typically only has two ports: one that connects to your local internet service provider and another that broadcasts a wireless signal to connect wireless devices like laptops, phones, gaming consoles, and smart home gadgets such as security cameras.

With so many devices in your home using Wi-Fi it can be challenging to keep track of them all when trying to find the best channel for each device. A switch makes it easy to connect multiple devices together – so can you use a wifi router as a switch? Let’s take a look at why not…

Related Article: How to Turn a Router Into a Wi-Fi Hotspot

How do I turn my wireless router into a switch?

To turn your wireless router into a switch, you need to connect a crossover cable to the LAN/Ethernet port on your active internet router to the LAN/Ethernet port on the router you want to be a switch. After connecting, the “WAN” or “Internet” ports will not be used on your switch router, so don’t connect any devices to these ports by mistake.

You can turn your wireless router into a switch by plugging an Ethernet switch into the WAN port on the router. This can be helpful if you need to connect several wired devices together but don’t have a separate switch.

A wifi router with an Ethernet switch plugged into the WAN port can still broadcast a WIFI signal and connect wireless devices. You can even use the Ethernet ports on the switch to plug in more wired devices.

If you don’t have an Ethernet switch you can use an Ethernet splitter to plug into a single port on the router and then plug two wired devices into the splitter.

Difference between a router and a switch

The table below outlines the main differences between a router and a switch:

PropertyRouterSwitch
FunctionConnects networks together, routes traffic between themConnects devices within a network together, forwards traffic within that network
Network LayerOperates at the network layer (Layer 3)Operates at the data link layer (Layer 2)
MAC Address TableMaintains a routing table with information about other networksMaintains a MAC address table with information about devices on the same network
IP AddressingCan assign IP addresses to devices on its networkDoes not assign IP addresses
BroadcastsBlocks broadcasts by default to prevent unnecessary trafficForwards broadcasts within the same network
SecurityCan use NAT (Network Address Translation) to hide internal IP addressesDoes not offer any security features
PerformanceTypically has lower port density but higher throughput per portTypically has higher port density but lower throughput per port
PriceMore expensive than switchesLess expensive than routers

In summary, a router connects different networks together and routes traffic between them, while a switch connects devices within a single network together and forwards traffic within that network. Routers operate at the network layer and maintain a routing table, while switches operate at the data link layer and maintain a MAC address table.

Routers can assign IP addresses and offer security features, while switches cannot. Routers are typically more expensive than switches but have higher throughput per port, while switches are less expensive but have lower throughput per port.

Why someone might want to turn their router into a switch

There are several reasons why someone might want to turn their router into a switch. One common reason is to expand their network’s capabilities without having to purchase additional hardware. A router typically has several Ethernet ports built in, which can be used to connect devices to the internet. However, if all of these ports are in use, or if additional devices need to be connected, a switch can be a cost-effective solution.

Another reason someone might want to turn their router into a switch is to improve network performance. Routers are designed to route traffic between networks, which can be a complex process. In contrast, switches are designed to forward traffic within a single network, which is a simpler process that can result in faster performance. By turning their router into a switch, someone can potentially improve their network’s speed and reduce latency.

Finally, turning a router into a switch can be useful for setting up a home lab or testing network configurations. By using a switch instead of a router, someone can create a small network with multiple devices that can communicate with each other without being connected to the internet. This can be useful for testing different configurations, running simulations, or experimenting with different network topologies.

In conclusion, turning a router into a switch can provide several benefits, including cost savings, improved network performance, and increased flexibility for setting up a home lab or testing network configurations. However, it’s important to note that not all routers can be turned into switches, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications before attempting to make the switch.

Checking if your router can be turned into a switch

Before attempting to turn a router into a switch, it’s important to check whether the router is compatible. Not all routers can be used as switches, and attempting to do so on an incompatible router can cause network problems. Here are some steps to check if your router can be turned into a switch:

  1. Check the router’s manual: The first step is to check the router’s manual or specifications to see if it supports switching functionality. Look for terms such as “switch mode” or “access point mode” in the documentation. If the manual doesn’t provide this information, you can try searching for the router model online to see if other users have successfully turned it into a switch.
  2. Check the router’s web interface: Log into the router’s web interface and look for settings related to switching or access point mode. The location of these settings will vary depending on the router, but they may be located under “Wireless Settings,” “Advanced Settings,” or “LAN Settings.” If you don’t see any options related to switching, the router may not support this feature.
  3. Check the router’s firmware: If the router’s manual and web interface don’t provide any information about switching, you can check if there are any firmware updates available for the router. Sometimes, newer firmware versions can add additional features, including switching functionality. Check the router manufacturer’s website or the router’s web interface for firmware update information.
  4. Check the router’s hardware: Finally, you can check the router’s hardware to see if it has the necessary ports to function as a switch. A router needs at least two Ethernet ports to function as a switch, one to connect to the main network and one to connect to the devices on the switch. If your router has only one Ethernet port, it cannot be turned into a switch.

In conclusion, before attempting to turn your router into a switch, it’s important to check if your router is compatible. Check the manual, web interface, firmware, and hardware to ensure that the router can be used as a switch. If you’re unsure about whether your router can be used as a switch, you can contact the manufacturer’s support team for assistance.

Steps to disable the DHCP server on the router

Disabling the DHCP server on a router is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. Here are the general steps to disable the DHCP server on a router:

  1. Access the router’s web interface: Open a web browser on a device that’s connected to the router and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar. You may need to enter a username and password to log in to the router’s web interface.
  2. Locate the DHCP settings: Once you’re logged into the router’s web interface, locate the DHCP settings. The location of these settings will vary depending on the router’s manufacturer and model, but they’re typically found under the “LAN,” “Network,” or “DHCP” sections of the web interface.
  3. Disable the DHCP server: Once you’ve located the DHCP settings, look for an option to disable the DHCP server. This may be labeled as “DHCP server,” “DHCP enabled,” or “DHCP lease.” Toggle this option to “off” or “disabled.” Some routers may require you to save the changes before the DHCP server is disabled.
  4. Save the changes and restart the router: After you’ve disabled the DHCP server, save the changes to the router’s configuration and restart the router. This will ensure that the DHCP server is completely turned off and that any devices on the network are assigned a static IP address.

It’s important to note that disabling the DHCP server on a router will require you to manually assign IP addresses to each device on the network. If you’re not familiar with networking or IP addressing, it’s recommended to consult the router’s manual or seek the assistance of a professional.

Steps to assign a static IP address to the router

Typically, routers are assigned dynamic IP addresses by default, which means that the IP address can change each time the router is restarted or the network is reset. However, in some situations, it may be necessary to assign a static IP address to a router. Here are the general steps to assign a static IP address to a router:

  1. Log into the router’s web interface: Open a web browser on a device that’s connected to the router and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar. You may need to enter a username and password to log in to the router’s web interface.
  2. Locate the WAN settings: Once you’re logged into the router’s web interface, locate the WAN settings. The location of these settings will vary depending on the router’s manufacturer and model, but they’re typically found under the “Internet,” “WAN,” or “Connection” sections of the web interface.
  3. Assign a static IP address: In the WAN settings, look for an option to assign a static IP address. This may be labeled as “Static IP,” “Manual IP,” or “Fixed IP.” Enter the desired IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server information. These values should match the network configuration of your local network.
  4. Save the changes and restart the router: After you’ve assigned a static IP address to the router, save the changes to the router’s configuration and restart the router. This will ensure that the new IP address is assigned and that the router is accessible on the local network.

It’s important to note that assigning a static IP address to a router can have implications for network security and performance. If you’re not familiar with networking or IP addressing, it’s recommended to consult the router’s manual or seek the assistance of a professional.

Connecting the router to the main network

Connecting a router to a main network can be done in a few steps. Here are the general steps to connect a router to the main network:

  1. Determine the type of connection: Determine the type of connection that you’ll use to connect the router to the main network. There are two main types of connections: wired and wireless. A wired connection requires an Ethernet cable to connect the router to the main network, while a wireless connection uses the router’s Wi-Fi signal to connect to the main network.
  2. Configure the router’s LAN settings: Log into the router’s web interface and configure the router’s LAN settings. This includes setting a unique IP address for the router and disabling the DHCP server on the router, which allows the main network to assign IP addresses to devices on the router’s network.
  3. Connect the router to the main network: Connect the router to the main network using the selected type of connection. For a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable from the main network to one of the LAN ports on the router. For a wireless connection, connect to the router’s Wi-Fi network using the SSID and password that you configured.
  4. Test the connection: Test the connection to ensure that the router is connected to the main network and that devices on the router’s network can access the internet and other devices on the main network.

It’s important to note that connecting a router to the main network can have implications for network security and performance. It’s recommended to consult the router’s manual or seek the assistance of a professional if you’re not familiar with networking or connecting devices to a network.

Configuring the router’s LAN settings

Configuring a router’s LAN settings is an essential step when setting up a new router or connecting it to an existing network. Here are the general steps to configure a router’s LAN settings:

  1. Log into the router’s web interface: Open a web browser on a device that’s connected to the router and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar. You may need to enter a username and password to log in to the router’s web interface.
  2. Navigate to the LAN settings: Once you’re logged into the router’s web interface, navigate to the LAN settings. The location of these settings will vary depending on the router’s manufacturer and model, but they’re typically found under the “LAN,” “Network,” or “Setup” sections of the web interface.
  3. Set the IP address: In the LAN settings, set the IP address for the router. This should be a unique IP address that’s within the range of the main network’s IP addresses. For example, if the main network uses IP addresses in the range of 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.254, you might set the router’s IP address to 192.168.1.2.
  4. Set the subnet mask: Set the subnet mask for the router. This should be the same subnet mask used by the main network.
  5. Disable the DHCP server: Disable the DHCP server on the router. This will allow the main network to assign IP addresses to devices on the router’s network.
  6. Save the changes: Save the changes to the router’s configuration.

It’s important to note that the specific steps for configuring a router’s LAN settings may vary depending on the router’s manufacturer and model. It’s recommended to consult the router’s manual or seek the assistance of a professional if you’re not familiar with networking or configuring devices on a network.

Testing the connection to ensure it’s working properly

After connecting the router to the main network and configuring its settings, it’s important to test the connection to ensure that everything is working properly. Here are the general steps to test the connection:

  1. Check the router’s status: Log into the router’s web interface and check its status. Look for any error messages or warnings that may indicate a problem with the connection.
  2. Check network connectivity: Use a device that’s connected to the router’s network, such as a laptop or smartphone, to check network connectivity. Try to access the internet and other devices on the main network. If everything is working properly, you should be able to access the internet and other devices without any issues.
  3. Check IP addresses: Check the IP addresses of devices on the router’s network to ensure that they’re being assigned by the main network’s DHCP server. If devices on the router’s network are being assigned IP addresses by the router’s DHCP server, this may indicate that the DHCP server on the router wasn’t properly disabled.
  4. Check network performance: Use a network speed test tool to test the performance of the router’s network. This can help identify any performance issues or bottlenecks in the connection.
  5. Troubleshoot any issues: If there are any issues with the connection, troubleshoot them by checking the router’s settings and consulting the router’s manual or seeking the assistance of a professional if necessary.

It’s important to test the connection after setting up a router to ensure that it’s working properly and that devices on the router’s network can access the internet and other devices on the main network.

Can you use WiFi router as a switch?

You can use a WiFi router as a switch. You need to plug in the old router and reset it to its original factory settings. To reset the router to factory settings, you can use the factory reset button at the back of the router.

Once the router has been factory reset, you can hook the Wi-Fi router up to the other router’s network using one of the LAN ports. Afterward, you can switch the cable to the WAN port once the connection has been established.

Using the old router as a switch will help to connect multiple devices to the internet via Ethernet cables. This is by repurposing the router as a repeater or access point where you can use its extra Ethernet ports to connect more devices.

Using a Netgear router as a switch

Yes, but the switch will be completely separate from the wireless network created by the router. If you plug an Ethernet switch into the WAN port on a Netgear router, it will be a completely separate network from the wireless network broadcast by the router.

The devices connected to the Ethernet switch won’t be able to connect to the router or be connected to the internet. You can use a network switch tester to double-check that the devices connected to the switch are not being broadcast by the router.

Therefore, you can use your old Netgear router as a repeater or access point. This is simply by connecting it to your main router with an Ethernet cable and setting it on bridge mode.

Do you need a switch if you have a router?

If you have a spare router, you do not need to invest in a switch since you can use the other router as a switch. However, if you only have one router and you want to connect to a number of devices far from the main router, you need a switch.

You can plug an Ethernet switch into the WAN port on a wireless router and create a separate wired network. The difference between using a network switch instead of a router as a switch is that the device will broadcast the wired network on all of its ports.

If you plug a computer or other device into one port of the switch, all other ports of the switch will also be a part of the wired network. This can be useful for setting up a network in a large building or creating a wired network in an area where you don’t want a wireless network. If you only want to broadcast a wifi signal, you don’t need a router as a switch.

Does an Ethernet switch slow speed?

An Ethernet switch is designed to connect wired devices together so they can share an internet connection. A switch only transmits data between the devices plugged into it, so it doesn’t slow down the internet connection like a router does when it broadcasts a WIFI signal.

The Ethernet switch therefore does not in most instances slow down the internet speed. You should note that the internet speed will be as fast as the slowest equipment used in the network. For example, if a modem is slow the whole internet for your home will be slow.

If you plug an Ethernet switch into a WIFI router, the switch will only be able to share the internet connection with the devices plugged into the switch. The devices connected to the WIFI router won’t be able to connect to the Ethernet switch.

Using two routers in my house

You can connect two routers with one modem for two networks in your home by simply using one router in a bridge mode. The second router will function as a WiFi extender broadcasting its own network.

You can plug an Ethernet switch into the WAN port of a wireless router, and you can plug another router into the LAN port of the Ethernet switch.

You can use this configuration to separate devices connected to the LAN ports of the Ethernet switch and devices connected to the WAN port of the second router. You can also use two routers to create two separate networks.

The method is quite easy if you have two routers and an Ethernet cable. You can use this method to broadcast the internet to a long distance off the main router.

Why would you need a switch?

You need a switch to connect multiple devices to the internet via the Ethernet cable. Adding as switch increases the Ethernet ports in your setup by adding the switch Ethernet port to the main router Ethernet ports.

Moreover, you will love the fact that the switch can be used to increase the network coverage of your home. Using the Ethernet cable ensures that you do not lose the signal in a similar way as the WiFi connection.

If you plug an Ethernet switch into the WAN port of a wifi router, the switch will share the internet connection with all of the devices plugged into it. The devices plugged into the switch will be able to access the internet, but they won’t be able to connect to the router or be connected to other devices on the router.

This configuration is useful if you want to create a separate wired network in your home.

4 types of switches in networking

There are several different types of networking switches on the market, including managed switches, smart switches, unmanaged switches, and Ethernet switches. Managed switches are used in business networks and offer advanced features like monitoring and controlling network traffic.

Smart switches are designed for home and small business networks. They provide advanced features, but you can’t configure them as deeply as managed switches. Unmanaged switches are basic switches used in smaller networks where you don’t need advanced features. You can configure these switches slightly, but they don’t have the same level of control as managed and smart switches.

Why a network switch is considered more intelligent than a hub?

Hubs are an older technology that is less intelligent than switches. They are less efficient and designed for smaller networks with less devices. They only send the data from the computer that needs the data to the computer that needs it, whereas switches are designed for larger networks with more devices and can send data from multiple computers to all the other devices on the network.

 Hubs are less reliable than switches, and they don’t have the same level of control as switches, either. When you’re setting up a new network, you can use switches or hubs. You may want to use switches if you have a larger network with multiple devices. Hubs are best used with very basic networks that have a few devices.

Benefits of using a network switch instead of a router

Switches are better than routers for connecting devices together because they have more network ports than routers and they are more efficient than routers. They can also be managed using software, and they provide more advanced networking features than routers.

Routers are best used for connecting devices to the internet, and switches are best used for connecting devices together on a local network. Using a switch instead of a router can make it easier to manage a large number of devices, and it can provide more advanced networking features.

 Finally, using a switch instead of a router makes it easy to expand your network in the future. You can also use network switches to turn a single router into multiple network routers with multiple LAN ports.

Disadvantages of using a network switch instead of a router

The only disadvantage of using a switch instead of a router is that you will use more network ports. This means that you may need to purchase an Ethernet switch with more ports than the number of devices you plan to connect.

With a switch, devices are connected to the network and accessible through the switch. If you want devices connected to a router to be accessible, you will need a separate connection from the switch to the router.

This can make managing a network with a switch a little more difficult than managing a network with a router because you have two devices to configure and manage instead of one.

Conclusion

A switch is designed to connect multiple devices together, while a router is designed to broadcast a wireless signal. You can turn your WIFI router into a switch by plugging an Ethernet switch into the WAN port on the router. You can also plug another router into the LAN port of the Ethernet switch. Both configurations will create two separate networks.

An Ethernet switch doesn’t slow down the internet connection like a router does when it broadcasts a WIFI signal, so you can use one to create a wired network in your home.

FAQS

What is the difference between a managed and unmanaged network switch?

Managed switches come with network management software that lets you monitor network traffic and set up advanced features like traffic prioritization and auto-switching. You can also control managed switches from your phone or computer.

 Managed switches are designed for small to large businesses and are more expensive than unmanaged switches. Unmanaged switches don’t come with network management software. They are designed for smaller networks and are less expensive than managed switches.

What are the advantages of using a managed network switch?

Managed switches come with network management software that provides more control over your network. You can monitor network traffic and set up advanced features such as traffic prioritization.

Which is better Ethernet hub or switch?

Hubs are an older technology and less intelligent than switches. They are best used in very basic networks where you don’t need advanced features like network monitoring, traffic prioritization and network management. Switches are more efficient and provide more advanced networking features than hubs.

Can you connect switches together?

Yes, you can connect multiple switches together to create a more robust network. This is common in very large businesses with a lot of devices on their networks. When you connect switches together, you also need network cabling that has more ports to support the larger network.