Need advice on creating home network

[#1]

So i've got a main desktop pc and just built a htpc and have plans to build a nas. I want to move all my hard drives to that so that both the htpc and desktop can use that as storage from now on. I realised that the plusnet router(Technicolor TG582n) doesn't support 1gbps. Do i just buy a new router or is there another way to do this.

[#2]

If you want Gb networking internally then connecting things to a gigabit switch should do what you want, one example (of many) that might suit is: http://www.dabs.com/products/trendnet-5-port-gigabit-greennet-switch-82GC.html

[#3]

Yup, get a switch, plug your devices into that and then plug the switch into the router you already have.

[#4]

oh wow that's super cheap. Thanks guys i'll buy one right away

[#5]

Also available as 8-port (if you plan to connect more than 4 devices + router), other makes & models might also be worth considering (I have the 8-port version of the one I linked an it 'just works' very nicely.

[#6]

Yeh i'm just browsing different sites and reading reviews. I'll probably just buy a 4 port switch don't think i'll really need more than that

[#7]

Your choice of course, but you'll fill up a 4 port switch straight away...
Port 1 - Router
Port 2 - Desktop PC
Port 3 - HTPC
Port 4 - NAS

[#8]

You may discover that you need to plug a switch into a switch
if you have too many gadgets in one room.
You can connect a 100Mbps switch into a 1Gbps switch for cheapness.

[#9]

I use an 8port Gib (TPLINK )switch with a 5 port (Netgear) 100Mb downstairs for the TV/PI/Sat/Freeview box. All the kit upstairs is connected to the switch and then to the router from it, so only the one port used on the router.
If the 8 port is only a few quid dearer than the 5 get it, you will thank yourself down the line (if it is a lot more expensive then don't)

[#10]

That is a very good point might as well future proof it. I've already got a switch in mind and will be be buying it today http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000N9B688/ref=noref?ie=UTF8&psc=1&s=computers

[#11]

Amongst my collection of gigabit switches, I have the 5-port version of this - Amazon : Netgear GS208
and that seems to do the job perfectly well at a very low cost compared to my preferred Amazon : Netgear GS608.

[#12]

The famous "Adair's Switch Rule" Estimate the maximum switch ports you'll ever need then buy twice as many.

[#13]

Then build a shelf four times the size to hold it - with associated bits.
Then install a great many power points.

[#14]

Heh under the stairs used to be my little datacentre lol