Are you out of ethernet ports? Need to connect more stuff to your router? Then, friend, you need to get yourself a managed network switch.

What does Ethernet switch actually mean? Find out inside PCMag's comprehensive tech and computer-related encyclopedia.

A switch merely helps Ethernet devices exchange packets between each other on the same level – it’s typically nowhere near as smart as a router gets.

Ethernet splitters and switches have their own merits, but ultimately one is more convenient and efficient.