Fast Ethernet: How to speed up the network transfer via D-Link Gigabit Switch + USB Adapter

If you want to share files via your home network, you might want to configure your ethernet adapter first

Gigabit Ethernet Switch

Tip: If you really want to speed up your network transfer and want to invest some money, get a 1 GBit Ethernet Switch:

The following D-Link switch received favorable reviews and will cost you about $40:

D-Link DGS-1008G 8-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch

IMPORTANT: You will only be able to make use of a Gigabit switch if you ALSO have Gigabit ethernet adapters in your PC’s and laptops. If you order one, make sure to have a free PCI slot or get a USB ethernet adapter like this one Plugable USB 2.0 to 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Adapter (ASIX AX88178 Chipset)

Configuring Your Ethernet Adapter To use 100MBit/s Full Duplex

1. Before you start, make sure you connect your PC’s via a LAN-ethernet cable – avoid WLAN if you want a fast transfer.

2. Now open the Network and Sharing Center

3. On the left top, click the 2nd link “Change adapter settings”

4. Right-click on your main connection – often labeled LAN Connection, Realtek PCIe xxx Controller or similar.

5. Now click the Configure button:

6. Go to the tab Advanced and check the Property list of an item labeled Speed & Duplex or similar

7. On the right, select 100 Mbit/s Full Duplex

After following the steps above, you will have a lot faster file transfers. Enjoy!