Connect two boxes using one Ethernet cable

Question

Can I connect 2 boxes (1 sky hd and a separate satellite box) to one Ethernet cable?

(Submitted online by Ian)

Our Answer

Not directly.

In this case, you would not want to use a splitter to connect two boxes to one Ethernet cable.

In a situation where you want to have two devices talking to one router, you would use something called an Ethernet Switch. These typically come with a socket to connect to your router, and multiple ports for each device you want to connect.

In the situation you describe, you would need an Ethernet Switch with at least two ports. You can pick these up cheaply at PC World or Maplin (See Ethernet Switches at Maplin)

Other alternatives

There are two other alternatives worth mentioning as alternatives to using a switch.

1. Run a second cable from your router to the second satellite box.
2. Use Wi-fi instead. You can be able to use Wi-fi to connect to your router, if your router supports wireless 802.11 wi-fi.
3. Use a HomePlug / Powerline adapter for the second satellite receiver. The devices connect to a router using the house mains wiring, and mean you don’t have to run a second cable. (These can also be purchased at the likes of PC World and Maplin – See Networking over mains)