In the computer networking world, the three most ubiquitous pieces of equipment are modems, routers, and switches. These are used everywhere from the datacenter hosting Google to the internet ...

Standing in the networking aisle of an electronics retail store, anybody could mistakenly pick up a router instead of an Ethernet switch or vice versa. The product packages as well as the devices ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Technology journalist specializing in audio, computing and Apple Macs. If you’ve got a mesh Wi-Fi network set up in your home, you ...

I use a simple unmanaged switch to expand my wired Ethernet access without complicating my home network.

Before installing your new modem, you need to disconnect your old modem from your cable wall outlet and computer first. Connect the modem power cord into an electrical outlet. Connect the other end to ...

Switches and routers are both basic, common components found in local area networks. On a simple level, routers are advanced switches that communicate between both local area networks and wide area ...

In the living room, the primary router is connected to the modem. There are also several devices wired into that router. In the back of the house, I have a switch which is hardwired to the primary ...