Looking for some advice on using a network switch to set up a shared internet connection (maybe 6...

[G+_Duane Hettich]

Looking for some advice on using a network switch to set up a shared internet connection (maybe 60 people, with multiple devices). Or maybe I'm going about it wrong, would be glad for some advice from anyone with expertise.  Have used WiFi Routers in the past, However, when you string a few together, only one should be a NAT server. 

The problem seems to be that they have a limited number of addresses to give out, and when that limit is reached (even if most of the devices aren't connected at the time), nothing more can connect. So I've been thinking about putting in a heavier duty switch first, to act as a NAT server, and then use wireless points to distribute the signal through the area.

[G+_Chris Cheatwood]

A consumer router should be able to give out IPs for those 60 devices at one time.  I feel your issue is when you have more than just a few trying to get out to the Internet at the same time your router just can't handle it.  I switch would help if you were transferring most of the data among computers in your local network, but if most of this traffic is going out to the Internet and back you would probably need to get a business-class router.  The Netgear ProSafe routers should do better than the consumer routers you will find at a typical big-box store.

[G+_Duane Hettich]

Interesting.  Thanks for the advice.  We've just used consumer routers up until now.  We'll look into a business-class router like you suggest.  Thanks.

[G+_Chris Cheatwood]

You're welcome! Let me know if you need any other help.

[G+_Michael Kickingbear]

What differentiates a business class router vs a consumer model?

 

Are there business class routers that double as a cable modem and wifi transceiver ?

 

Thanks!

[G+_Patrick Wolfe (whistl)]

Most routers let you edit the drop server settings. The last octet goes up to dot 254 and the router is usually dot 1. Save dot 2 thru dot 49 for static assignments (printers, servers) , and set dhcp to use the range dot 50 thru dot 249, which is 200 addresses. Network equip, extra switches, can use dot 250 thru dot 254.

[G+_Patrick Wolfe (whistl)]

Dhcp not drop

[G+_Teck Mobi]

Please see Know How show below:

April 4, 2013

#38: Expand Your Network

Make your network reach new places! Russell Tammany gives us the know how to build a client bridge.

 

Sounds like you are running out of IP addresses. This can be adjusted. The range is 1-254 with 0(zero) and 255 reserved. Note: only ONE device on the network will give out IP addresses.

[G+_Jimbo Schafer]

Here is a great video that may help  you look at the network topology ...  

- good luck