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8 Messages
which ethernet ports to use on xb7 router
Hello, I'm new to the forum. I have an XB7 router and would like to know how to configure it and which ports to use to support two ethernet CAT5 cables from two WIN10 computers, such that both computers are on the same "network". Currently the CAT5 cables are plugged into different ports and everything works however the computers are on different "networks". Instead of buying a 5 port switch, I figured there must be some way to configure the XB7 to "join" two ports. Perhaps there is a different or better way?
Thanks, Bill
Accepted Solution
user_bb801b
Contributor
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167 Messages
3 years ago
In case this solution works for you, I have XB7 run directly to 24 port Gb "smart" switch and all device use (incrementally) the same 10.0.0. IP address. Haven't tried poking around with ssh to another device on a different port on the XB7 at the same time but will give it a go and see if there is any difference as far as IP address assignments. I see that you were reluctant to purchase a switch but in my experience its worth the money as well as freeing up space to connect other stuff to the XB7. I believe the XB7 runs bridge mode but haven't tried that either and perhaps that would help with the separate network address issue referenced.
Thanks and good luck.
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kansasbill
Frequent Visitor
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8 Messages
3 years ago
User_bb801b, Thank you for the reply and good suggestions.
Originally, I considered a switch but just thought that with the XB7 & technology I should be able to manage/merge two of its ports (terminology … maybe bridge is the term?).
Anyway, I did install a 5-port Gigabit switch and have made some progress but it’s not right yet.
I have changed and adjusted SHARED settings on both Win10 computers and have partial success, but one computer shows to be on Network 3 while the other is on Network 4.
* Both computers are seen as connected devices using the Win10 app Family Settings on each computer.
* using File Explorer on computer #1, computer #2 appears under network and I’m able to “pin it to Quick Access” and I can read, copy files etc on computer #2 using computer #1.
* using File Explorer on computer #2, computer #1 does NOT appear under network.
Needless to say I’ve restarted both computers several times during the changes but it didn’t help.
Previously on XP & Win7, I used HOMEGROUP and it worked great to accomplish what I am now trying to do, as a workaround since MS removed HOMEGROUP from Win10.
I’m believing there is a setting somewhere that is causing the problem but I haven’t discovered it yet. Consequently I continue to use thumb drives and portable external USB HDD to transfer files between both computers. (I have used MS One Drive as well)
Thanks again, Bill
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