When it comes to computer connections, a LAN or local area network may have different connections to external ISPs or Internet Service Providers. Typically, it’s done for fault tolerance. If a link falls, LAN is connected still to the outside world through other link and for improved bandwidth. You may connect a single switch on your network to 2 ISPs.

Steps for Setting Up 2 ISPs With a Switch:

• Connect any LAN ports on the 1st router to the port in a switch. Connect WAN port in the 1st router to the 1st ISP.
• Connect LAN ports on the 2nd router to another port in your switch. Connect WAN port to the 2nd ISP in the 2nd router.
• Proceed to configuring the second and first routers to not act as the servers for DHCP or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. The most accurate way of performing this step depends on the model and make of the routers.
• Configure the 2nd and 1st routers to use static IP addresses. For instance, assign particular IP addresses to the 2 routers. The best way to perform this step relies on the model and make of the routers.
• Configure the DHCP server of LAN to hand out the IP addresses in a range that doesn’t include the routers. For instance, configure to hand out IP address in a certain interval.
• Configure several computers in LAN to utilize one of the routers as gateways to external addresses while remaining computers utilize other router.

You don’t really need the help of experts to set up two ISPs with a single switch. By following those steps above and other guidelines you can find online, you can be assured that you will be able to do this setup with ease. However, you have to take note that there are different models of routers and some might require special steps for you to accomplish the setup. So, make sure to do your research first before trying to do it on your own to avoid any inconvenience or issues in the long run.

If you are not sure about what you’re doing, it’s never a problem as you can always hire professionals to help you with the setup. This task is not expensive and some might do it for you for free of charge. If you’re thinking of your budget, you don’t have to spend big with setting up 2 ISPs with a switch.

There are also websites and other professionals who can guide you throughout the process of the setup. The only thing you should do is to follow all the steps properly and correctly for you to achieve the results you want. You may also ask for assistance from some of your friends who have done this setup before. In this way, you can guarantee that you will be guided throughout the process and you will always stay on the right track to set it up successfully.

Getting Help with Switches

If you are going to get rid of your old switches feel free to contact us to find out more about upgrading your old switches.