Even in the era of widespread wireless networks, the trusty Ethernet port on your router still offers some valuable advantages. Let’s explore what you can do with this versatile port. Depending on your router model, you might have one, two, four, or more Ethernet ports, and they can be categorized as Gigabit or Fast Ethernet. The difference in speed is significant, with Gigabit supporting up to 1 Gbps symmetrically, while Fast Ethernet is limited to a maximum of 100 Mbps.
If you aim to maximize your internet connection’s potential, using the network cable through the Ethernet port can be an excellent choice. With a wired connection, you will experience greater stability, fewer coverage issues, and overall improved reliability. You can connect devices with confidence, without constantly worrying about whether the wireless signal is strong enough. The downside is that, in many cases, the Ethernet port remains underutilized or not used at all. It’s time to make the most of this powerful feature.
How to take advantage of the Ethernet port
You might find that you have an unused Ethernet port on your router. If you’ve been relying solely on Wi-Fi for all your connections, it’s time to consider the benefits of using a wired connection. Not only can it improve your connection speed and reliability, but it also opens up new possibilities for connecting various devices.
Connect a NAS
One excellent use of the Ethernet port is to connect a NAS (Network Attached Storage) server. By plugging the NAS into the router’s Ethernet port, you can access your files from anywhere with an internet connection. This setup is perfect for creating backup copies, freeing up mobile storage space, or easily sharing files with others.
There’s a wide variety of NAS servers available on the market, so it’s essential to carefully choose one that suits your needs. Consider features like storage capacity, remote access options, and connectivity to ensure you find the best fit for your requirements.
Avoid using Wi-Fi when you can
Using the router’s Ethernet port is also a great way to minimize reliance on Wi-Fi whenever possible. By connecting devices like computers or televisions through a wired connection, you can avoid potential interferences and problems that might affect your network speed.
If you have an Ethernet cable and an available port, you can easily connect these devices via a wired connection. You’ll notice a significant increase in signal quality, improved stability, and fewer connectivity issues when accessing the internet. This method works for a wide range of devices, as long as they support Ethernet connectivity. Embracing wired connections when suitable can lead to a more reliable and seamless internet experience throughout your home.
Have a VPN with another router
One option that may be available to you, provided you have a compatible router, is to set up a VPN (Virtual Private Network). If you happen to have an old router at home that is not being used, you can connect it to your main router and configure it to function as a VPN server.
Having a VPN server at home can be beneficial when connecting from public networks, as it helps encrypt your connection for added security. Additionally, if you’re traveling in another country and wish to maintain access to streaming content without restrictions or use applications that may be blocked in that region, having a home-based VPN with your own IP address can prove to be quite useful.
Improves the network when using PLC
You can even enhance your network capabilities further. Beyond just connecting an Ethernet cable and extending it to another area of your house, there’s also the option of using PLC devices. Simply plug one of these devices into your router and connect it to the electrical outlet. This allows you to utilize the Ethernet port for yet another purpose.
By doing this, you’ll significantly improve the network coverage in various areas of your house. You’ll experience seamless connections, even when you’re farther away from the router. This is particularly useful for eliminating dead zones and places where interference may hinder the Wi-Fi network’s performance.
As you can see, the possibilities for using your router’s Ethernet port are quite diverse. The examples mentioned above are just a few instances of what you can achieve. By connecting numerous devices through these ports, you’ll enjoy greater stability compared to relying solely on Wi-Fi connections. This can be done with any router equipped with these types of ports.