Ethernet Splitter Problem

[Denizen]

Before reading this please take into account that I do not know much about the technicalities of computers or networking.


I bought an Ethernet splitter the other day (because I want to connect a router to two different computers, but my router only has one ethernet port for some reason)

So, I have a small 1/2 foot long ethernet cable going into this splitter, and two more coming out into the two computers, however, it is not working, I can put one of the cables in to connect it to one computer, but the moment I put a second ethernet cable into the splitter I lose connection.

Why is this, do I need to configure it somehow, or is it just a faulty splitter?

 

[setishock]

You can't split the signal between two computers unless only one is on at one time. You need a switch. You said your router only has one port. It would stand to reason the box you have is a modem. What kind of service do you have?

 

[ssc456]

Hi Denizen,

Seti is right that's not going to work you do need to get a switch which is in affect a splitter but it does complicated wizardry which I'm not going to pretend to understand which means you can take 1 Ethernet cable and split it to more than 1 computer.

Basic switches are very cheap and will do the job. . . .. .

HOWEVER I would question what broadband supplier you are with?
Seeing you are from England I know that almost every single broadband provider I can think of will supply you with a router with more than 1 Ethernet port on the back?

It may be worth a call to them to see if there is a free upgrade available!

If you have no luck here is what you will be looking for: ZyXEL ES108A 8 port 10/100 Desktop Switch | Ebuyer.com

I have no experience with that brand or model but the reviews are all very positive and it's the cheapest multi port switch on eBuyer. (Though you may find cheaper on eBay or Amazon).

 

[setishock]

TPLink makes some good hardware for budget minded folks.