Step by step approach to Configuring a router as a switch

NOTE: the second router must be on the same network as the first router because the second router will be used for switching only.
1. Connect first router's LAN port to the second router's LAN port by using a cross over cable. If one of the routers supports auto MDI/MDI-X feature, then use either straight or cross over cable because whichever cable type used, it will convert it to the configuration that best suits its purpose. Always remember not to make any connection to the second router's WAN or Internet port.

2. Now set the first router's IP to 192.168.1.1 and a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0 which is eventually going to be the gateway for the whole network including computers that derive their connection via the second router. DHCP settings should be configured only on the first router which will serve as DHCP server for the entire network. DHCP should be disable on the second router. The IP range for the first router should begin from 192.168.1.2-250, subnet mask 255.255.255.0, gateway 192.168.1.1 and DNS server 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220 on the first router.

3. Enter the second router's configuration page, then assign IP and subnet mask to it. The IP and subnet mask must be in line with that of the first router i.e second router IP can be 192.168.1.251, 192.168.1.252 and so on. Subnet mask remain 255.255.255.0.

4. Save all settings and you have succeeded in configuring the second router to act as a switch. Connect computers to the remaining LAN port of the second router. An enabled connection should be noticed immediately in the computers.

It is a thing of joy and pleasure for me sharing my knowledge and experiences with others. Become a WIZIAN today! Please scroll down to the bottom of this blog and subscribe to the newsletter and get updates through emails. Not forgetting to leave a comment below after reading this post.