Hub Speed question

[Twyst]

I'm working on building a moderate sized network for some LAN gaming. Currently we've got 3 Linksys 5-port hubs and a 5-port switch. I've been looking at various hubs from different sources. I'm looking at buying a hub between the sizes of 16-port to 24-port. What speeds should I be looking at? is 10base T enough? I know faster is always better, but I'm not thrilled at the thought of spending massive amounts of cash. Comments and suggestions more than welcome.

[Cy]

You don't mention how many active gamers will be using this network but here is some general advice. Keeping gaming fast takes more bandwidth than you might think (I've tried it over several broadband connections with lag trouble every time). 10/100 switches are what you want. The reason for switches is that the traffic is limited to each port and is not carried by the whole device like a hub. If you really must stick to a hub for your 16/24 port (you can find switches in 16port size for about $125 or so) then you should get a 10/100. If your little 5port switch is 10/100 you can link all the hubs to it to help maximize overall speed.

Good luck.

Cy

[Twyst]

Well I'm looking at around 30ish people right now. I've been hosting LAN parties in my area and their starting to get alot larger alot faster, so I'm looking into expanding my current Network config. (listed above).

Switches still the best setup for that type of use?

[Jon]

I'd agree on using a switch, even more so since you say your LAN parties are growing. You'd probably get by with a few hubs for a little while longer but you're going to need to go to a switch sooner or later to keep up with bandwidth demands as Cy stated.

It'll help out quite a bit as it is as well.

[rugby]

DEfinitely go with a switch, make all your buddies pitch in for one.