Hey, all -
I'm planning on expanding my ethernet setup here. I currently use an old Microsoft wireless access point/switch/NAT unit between my modem and the rest of the network. This MS unit (mn-500) has a dedicated input designed to take the modem, and it isolates this from the LAN with a NAT. It's a low-budget solution but a good one; it gives me all the functionality I want plus a modicum of security with MAC filtering, the NAT, etc.
Like I said, though, it's old. I'd like to find something that supports newer ethernet standards but still has a similar configuration - the dedicated modem input that sits outside the NAT. I only need 8~12 RJ45 LAN connectors (want to accomodate the new rendering stations that will hopefully be built this summer).
So does anyone have any product recommendations? I haven't looked at network hardware in years (as the old model WAP attests). Any input appreciated.
