Can a computer replace a hub/switch on a network?

Question

Four machines plugged into a switch, which is then plugged into the router/modem - that's my current setup. I was thinking of building a spare machine with Linux on it which routes network traffic and replaces the switch. Is this possible, by for example installing 4 network cards? (to replace the 4 ports in the switch)

Or should the machine be placed somewhere else, like for example between the Modem/Router and the switch?

Answer 1

wow dude serious go find a clue of reality

Answer 2

Is it possible? Yeah, it could be done. But I gotta ask: WHY?? For the life of me I can't think of any possible benefit from doing this but maybe I'm missing something...

FYI, it would have to have 5 NICs, not 4! 4 machines + a connection to the router = 5 ports on the switch in use.

If you want to play with Linux in a similar scenario, use a Linux box to replace the router. You only need 2 NICs and can use IP Chains or IP Tables to build a firewall. Better yet, get a copy of IPCop at http://www.ipcop.org

Answer 3

Yes you can. But there's always a better solution.
PCs need way more power, take up space and are
noisy. Routers are small, silent and hardly use much
power. If you're unhappy with that SOHO router crap
that's being sold and you know what you're doing build
your own. You just have to make up your mind about
the platform. There're a few small form factor computers
that don't need much power and can run Linux. I did it
myself and I'm more than happy with it. But it isn't a
cheap solution. I spent about 200€ getting a decent
router. Which isn't much compared to real router prices
but quite a bit to your average SOHO crap...or an old
trusty PC you have in your locker.

Answer 4

You could setup the new machine as a proxy server, but unless you have a need to control web access from the rest of the network, there is no reason for one.
Having a switch or router/switch is the best way to connect a network.

Answer 5

You could...but why, that's why they have routers and switches and switching routers.
It's cheaper and easier to implement and you can manage the devices remotely.

Answer 6

I would keep the switch. When people hav emore than one ethernet cards, it's usually for redundancy on servers or half-duplexing.