asked on

hub to switch upgrade problem

I would like to update a location that is using an old 10MHz hub, but I am very perplexed.
When I replace the hub with a switch I encounter some connectivity problems. Some computers have faster connections as I would expect, but some computers can't connect at all.
Tried a Gigabit switch then a 10/100 switch, different brands, one new and one used. The used switch I took from a working environment where I knew all of its ports were in use and working.
The network cabling at this location is very old and is in a rough use environment. Some of it is Cat 3.
If I put the hub back into place then all computers connect ok.
Dell server running 2003, 8 client computers running Win 7 or XP, cable modem, Cisco RV220W router.
What could be going on here?

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

InteraX

membership

This solution is only available to members.

To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.

Start Free Trial

SOLUTION

ccsionline

membership

This solution is only available to members.

To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.

Start Free Trial

techhealth

Cat 3 will definitely be problematic for GBE, or even for Fast Ethernet/100. To test if the cabling is the issue, try connecting your switch directly to problem computers with a known good CAT5/5e cable. If your computer can detect and connect correctly with the port, you know the cabling is the issue.

If the cable isn't the issue, check if your switches are auto-sensing. Also check if your computers have old Ethernet cards. Some old devices just can't work with faster switches (esp. printers).

Ernie Beek

Agreed, first get cat5/5e and I think most of your problems will disappear.

Bill Simpson

ASKER

I had assumed that a switch would auto-sense down to whatever slower speed might be needed to make the connection. It appears that the existing lines required a slower speed then was possible for connection. Thanks for the help.