networking question

[StanleyFish]

I have two 4-ports routers and I have five computers at home. Can I connect them together to share the DSL internet? I am thinking if it is possible to link the two routers together to make totally 7 ports availiable.

 

[osage]

yes

 

[rw120555]

What you probably want to do is use the 2nd router as a switch. So, (a) do not use the WAN port on the 2nd router, and (b) disable dhcp on the 2nd router. You may have to disable dhcp before you hook the 2 routers up.

 

[StanleyFish]

If not using the WAN port of the second router, what port can I use?

Can you tell me how switch actuallly works?

 

[rw120555]

I think you can use any of the non-WAN ports, although it might depend on your router. For info on routers and switches, see this or this.

 

[JackMDS]

Two four ports Switches (or the Router's switch); can yield only SIX free Ports.

One port of each switch is busy connecting one to the other.

Connection is - Router 1 regular port, to Router 2 regular port. DHCP has to be off on the non Routing Router.

For Cable use look here: AnandTech - FAQ. CAT5 Straight, Crossover. What is CAT5, which one should I Use?

Sell the second Router, and buy an 8 port switch, the result will be TEN ports.

Sell both Routers, and buy an eight port Router.