I am going to expand my network.
I have connected 5 PCs through a router.
I want to connect another 5 PCs but I don't have a switch.
I have DSL modem.
Is it possible that my DSL modem work as a switch?
typically you can't use your DSL Modem to work as a switch, because DSL modem (Modulator / Demodulator)only translates analog signal into digital signal.
BUT, some latest DSL modems like this one
it has ADSL support and 4 ports switch.
from your router, you must utilized 1 Switch port to bridge the connection to your DSL Modem Switch port using Crossover patch cord.
Internet <=> Router WAN Port <=> PC1-3 on switch port 1-3 <=> switch port 4 <=> crossover patch cord<=>ADSL Switch port 1 <=>PC4-6 on switch port 2-3.
You only have two options to expand your network.
Solution 1:
Replace your LAN cards with a wireless one so but make sure that your router supports wireless connection. But this is pretty slow unless you have a high end router.
Solution 2:
Buy a new switch or hub but I suggest the you buy a 24 port switch or hub to connect each PC but I suggest this many kinds of port to make sure that if you expand your network you have many ports for it. But if the location is far then just buy 8 ports.
This solutions is quite expensive but if you really want to have an expanded network, money really is needed and you must be prepared to invest on this situations.
