Beginner’s Guides

An IP address is assigned to each device that joins the network, so is it the network switch itself that assigns the addresses, or does it serve a completely different purpose?

We are all looking to get the highest FPS possible when gaming, so is using ethernet instead of a wireless alternative an easy win when it comes to improving your FPS?

As an avid gamer myself, I wanted to make sure I had the most optimal connection possible when gaming online, so did some research into whether using an ethernet cable instead of a wireless alternative really did lower ping response times.

If you are looking to extend your network connection outside, perhaps to a wireless access point or an outbuilding, you may be wondering whether you can use your existing ethernet cable or if you need to purchase a specialist type of cable.

When I set up my own gaming PC I was in the fortunate position where I could use ethernet and didn’t have to rely on a wireless alternative, but there are several reasons as to why I bought one anyway.

Although from the outside they all look the same, there is actually quite a variety to choose from when it comes to choosing an ethernet cable.

Many switches will look exactly the same as one another, so there is an assumption that they perform exactly the same functions as well. This isn’t actually the case as all switches fall into one of two categories: managed or unmanaged. Let’s take a look at both and explain some of the differences to help you decide which is best for you.

With the vast choice of different powerline adapters now available, you may be wondering if different powerline adapters work together, or whether you will be stuck having to use the same make and model each time.

If you have devices that can be powered over ethernet, like a wireless access point, you may be wondering if they can be powered directly from the router itself, or whether there is any additional equipment needed.

Powerline adapters can be seen as a great alternative to Wi-Fi, but do they need ethernet cables to function, and are they even included when you buy a powerline kit?

When a device joins your network, it is assigned an IP address. This begs the question as to whether your router will ever run out of IP address if you have that many devices to connect?

Many people would prefer to keep their routers out of sight with the inside of a cupboard being one of the more popular choices when it comes to positioning a router, but can this affect the Wi-Fi signal and reduce the effectiveness of the router?