What Is a Network Switch, and When Do You Need One?

July 21, 2023

When you grow tired of Wi-Fi, you may find yourself setting up several wired internet connections. But by the time that you’ve connected your PC, game console, smart TV, and NAS device to your router, it’s all out of ports!

Thankfully, you can add Ethernet ports to your router with a network switch. It sounds complicated, but it’s just like plugging a power strip into an outlet. Read our top story to learn why you’ll want a network switch, plus some information on high-end options.

Other Highlights:

• We reviewed the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra, a premium robot vacuum.
• Once again, the Cybertruck’s windshield wiper is sparking debate.
• Samsung teases its upcoming foldables with a new piece of information.
• … and more!

-Andrew

When you grow frustrated with Wi-Fi, a wired internet connection is usually your best bet. But you may need more Ethernet ports than your router can offer. That’s where a network switch comes in handy. It’s an extremely simple and affordable device, and it’s one of the best upgrades for a busy home network. Read More »

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The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra promises so much, like automatic washing and drying for its mop, 6,000Pa of suction power, and smart navigation. Unfortunately, this vacuum fell short of its advertised expectations and reminded me of one of those major AAA games that releases before it’s fully finished. Read More »

Without looking (because you never should), what color is the sun? Chances are you said yellow. If you’ve ever watched a video from the ISS, you might have said white. But Elon Musk is here to tell us the sun is green. But what color is the sun, really? It’s yellow. And white. And green. No, really! Read More »

Google confirmed a price increase for its popular YouTube Premium subscription earlier this week, and the bad news keeps coming. Not only will the price go up for YouTube Music and Premium, but the hike also affects your grandfathered YouTube Red subscription. Read More »

Wordle was just too easy, wasn’t it? You probably left that behind and moved on to Quordle, the true “hard mode” of the word-guessing game format. But now you’re stuck and so close to failing. Don’t worry, we’re here to help with a hint—and if you really need it, today’s Quordle Answers. Read More »

Gaming sessions can get intense quickly, especially if you’re playing the latest first-person shooter or doing competitive gaming. Avoid sweaty palms and take your gaming to the next level with these PS5 controller grips. The patented gripping technology has gecko-inspired microstructures to ensure the best grip possible. The Setex-brand grips come in multiple color options, all major consoles, or even thumbstick grip covers. Try a set today.

Are you a huge fan of Wordle and absolutely stuck today? Let me guess; you’re hanging out on guess four or five and feeling the pressure. We get it entirely: nothing feels worse than losing your streak. If you’re not ready to outright cheat, we have you covered with hints and today’s Wordle answer. Read More »

The WatchFree+ streaming service, which is included with all VIZIO smart TVs, now features a dedicated local channel category for regional news, weather, and sports. And to pad out this category, WatchFree+ just added 20 local news channels from the FOX and Gray Television networks. Read More »

While fans everywhere are waiting for the Super73 C1X electric motorcycle, the California-based lifestyle company hasn’t stopped releasing new ebikes. Today, Super73 unveiled a new Adventure Series that upgrades its entire lineup, along with more details on its “K1D” ebike for kids. Read More »

The Pixel Fold is finally arriving on customers’ doorsteps. But Samsung is swooping in with a distraction—the next Samsung Unpacked event kicks off on July 26th (about a month earlier than usual), and naturally, this year’s tagline is “Join the Flip Side.” Read More »

On July 26th, Samsung will host an Unpacked event for its Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5 smartphones. And, as with previous years, Samsung’s TM Roh has published a blog post with some early details on these upcoming devices. Read More »

Tesla just gave us our first official look at the Cybertruck going off-road during the company’s latest earnings report, and it shows a muddy electric truck and an equally dirty windshield. The comically large singular wiper blade appears to struggle. Read More »

Many people can’t imagine starting their day without a cup of coffee. After all, it’s the best part of waking up, right? But, while we’ve romanticized the idea of the rich aroma and a steaming mug drawing us out of bed, coffee might not be the best choice for your first morning beverage. Read More »