Devices on an unmanaged network switch will appear in your router configuration.
Devices on an unmanaged network switch will appear in your router configuration.
You should consider a managed network switch. It will handle IP address management for your devices, ensuring they appear correctly in your router. An unmanaged switch won’t provide this functionality.
The standard switch should function properly. My devices are connected via a low-cost switch on my desk, and everything appears to be working correctly.
Yes, DHCP and NAT should function via the router, allowing you to monitor all devices. The main limitation arises when you apply per-port QoS on Ethernet ports rather than at the client level, restricting control to ports managed by the router.
A standard or basic switch functions only at the second layer of the OSI model (MAC addresses) and doesn't prioritize IP addresses much. It simply forwards packets based on MAC addresses it detects, regardless of IP details. In essence, all connected devices appear in the router’s client or host list. Managed switches with limited Layer 3 support still display all connected devices from the router, even though they operate mainly at Layer 2. If you alter settings—like assigning interfaces to VLANs without using a trunk port—the router won’t recognize certain devices, potentially cutting off internet access. This extends beyond your query. To clarify quickly: in most consumer routers, switch ports provide only Layer 2 features, but advanced models add Layer 3 capabilities. As AshleyAshes noted, QoS on specific ports can restrict bandwidth or traffic types, and using a managed switch preserves more control. These switches are valuable for businesses but often unnecessary or less practical for typical home users, though some enthusiasts appreciate them for security and automation.