CONNECT EVERY PART OF YOUR DAY.
Networking
The right connections.
From desk to whole home.
Explore routers, mesh Wi-Fi, switches and network adapters. Choose equipment around your broadband connection, room layout, wired devices and existing network.
THE BIRCHWARD COLLECTION
05 / NETWORKING
05 / NETWORKING
EXPLORE THE DEPARTMENT
Shop networking
Choose a category to see the range and compare individual specifications.
Routers →
Match your connection and devices
Mesh Wi-Fi →
Plan coverage across your home
Network switches →
Connect more wired devices
Wi-Fi adapters →
Wireless connections for a compatible PC
Range extenders →
Extend an existing wireless network
Access points →
Add wireless coverage to a wired network
Ethernet cables →
Build your wired connections
PoE injectors →
Check standard and power requirements
FIND YOUR FIT
Start with the connection you need.
Improve Wi-Fi coverage
Consider the layout, wall construction and where devices are used. Compare mesh and extender approaches.
Connect more wired devices
Count the ports you need, compare link speeds and check whether any devices require Power over Ethernet.
Add wireless to a PC
Choose a supported USB or PCIe adapter. Check operating-system support, available slots and antenna placement.
A CLOSER LOOK
From the networking catalogue
Explore these individual products, then check the full details for your setup.
Products are sold individually. Check the product page for the latest specification and availability.
BEFORE YOU CHOOSE
A network works best when every part fits.
A few checks now make it easier to choose a product that suits your device and the way you use it.
01
Broadband setup
Check your provider’s connection type and whether you need a modem, router or access-point mode.
02
Coverage & placement
Allow for walls, floors and distance. Place wireless equipment where it can receive a useful signal.
03
Ports & link speeds
Match Ethernet speeds to your devices and cabling. Keep enough ports for your planned connections.
04
PoE & compatibility
Confirm the PoE standard, power budget and device requirements. Check mesh ecosystem compatibility before mixing units.
Find the right route to better coverage
Compare routers, mesh systems and range extenders before choosing the next part of your network.
USEFUL ANSWERS
Networking FAQs
Practical answers to help you narrow the choice. Always check the exact product and manufacturer specifications before ordering.
Router, mesh or extender: which should I choose?
A router manages the connection for a network. Mesh uses compatible units to provide wireless coverage, while an extender can enlarge an existing signal’s reach. Choose around the current setup and the problem you need to solve.
Will a new router make my broadband faster?
It cannot exceed the service supplied by your provider. It may improve local performance when existing equipment is the limiting factor, but results depend on devices, connections, placement and radio conditions.
What is a network switch for?
A switch adds wired Ethernet connections to a network. Compare port count and speed, and check PoE support if you plan to power compatible cameras or access points through the network cable.
Can I mix different mesh Wi-Fi units?
Do not assume different ranges or brands work as one mesh. Check the manufacturer’s compatibility list for the exact models and features you need.