D_K_1
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Q: Separate (Wired) Ethernet Line With Airport Express?

I am using an airport express for my home wireless network. I would like to run a separate (wired) Ethernet line, but don't have anything to tie into.  Should I install a router or switch between my modem and airport express?

Posted on Apr 25, 2012 1:20 PM

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D_K_1

Q: Separate (Wired) Ethernet Line With Airport Express?

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  • by Bob Timmons,

    Bob Timmons Bob Timmons Apr 25, 2012 1:40 PM in response to D_K_1
    Level 10 (105,433 points)
    Wireless
    Apr 25, 2012 1:40 PM in response to D_K_1

    You will need a wired only router.

     

    If you use a switch, it will be a matter of chance which device will be able to connect to the Internet....your AirPort Express or the other Ethernet device. Both cannot connect to the Internet at the same time.

     

    With a wired router, they can.

     

    You do have another option if you add another AirPort Express. It can be configured to "Extend a wireless network" and connect to your current Express using wireless only.

     

    The Ethernet port on the Express is enabled when it is configured this way. Your "main" AirPort Express would need to be the 802.11n version. Check the label on the side of the device. A1264 is the one that you want.

     

    If your budget allows, the suggestion by Tesserax would be the "best" way to go, performance wise.

  • by Tesserax,

    Tesserax Tesserax Apr 25, 2012 1:34 PM in response to D_K_1
    Level 9 (54,901 points)
    Wireless
    Apr 25, 2012 1:34 PM in response to D_K_1

    You will want to install a wired (or combination wired/wireless) router between the modem and the AirPort Express. For example, an AirPort Extreme Base Station would be an excellent choice as it support both and you may find that you will not need to use the current AirPort Express at all.

     

    With the Extreme, you would connect it directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable. The Extreme, in turn, has three LAN Ethernet ports for wired clients. You could connect the Express to one of these LAN ports or configure both AirPorts for an extended network.