Which network configuration is better?

[Rooke]

What's the best way to configure this network?

Code: Select all

Components:

Computer A
  Gigabit Adapter#1  ( On Mobo - 10/100/1000 )
  Gigabit Adapter#2  ( On Mobo - 10/100/1000 )

Computer B
  10/100 Adapter     ( On Mobo )
  Gigabit Adapter#3  ( 10/100/1000 ) 

Gigabit Switch ( 5 ports - 10/100/1000 )

10/100 Router w/4 port switch (Linksys BEFSX41)

Cable Modem  (Motorola SB5100)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Configuration #1:
                            Modem
                              |
                           Router                   
  Computer A                  |              Computer B
Gigabit Adapter#1 <--> Gigabit Switch <--> Gigabit Adapter#3
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Configuration #2:
                            Modem
  Computer A                  |              Computer B
Gigabit Adapter#2 <------> Router <------> 10/100 Adapter

Gigabit Adapter#1 <--> Gigabit Switch <--> Gigabit Adapter#3
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

My concern with configuration #2 is with the local traffic between computer A and B. How do I prevent it from going thru the Router at 100Mbs?

Configuration #1 seems to be the simplest but are switchs smart enough not to send the local A to/from B traffic thru the router?

Are my concerns valid?

Any help with this will be greatly appreciated.

[JackMDS]

I would say #1.

Local traffic has nothing to do with the Router under such an arrangement.

#2 can be some what better for heavy LAN transfer if you eliminate the Giga Switch and connect the two Giga cards via Crossover CAT6 cable.

[Rooke]

Thanks Jack!

I think I'll take your suggestion and go with #1. The switch will allow for putting an extra PC into the mix if that should happen down the road.

The LAN traffic isn't that heavy except for occasional game data (4-5GB) backups. The Giga will help a lot with that even if it isn't going at max efficiency.