To connect to the Internet we have the option of doing it by Wi-Fi or by cable. This last option is through ethernet cables. We can connect the computer to the router via Ethernet, for example, but also many other devices. It is common for us to accumulate cables of this type at home and we do not use them. You may even think about throwing them away. But in this article we are going to give you some ideas that you can use.
Why use an old Ethernet cable
Maybe you bought a new router and you get a new Ethernet cable and connect it to the computer. The cable that you used in the old router, surely you will no longer use it in the short term. But beware, you can use it and we will explain why. You will see that this element can be useful.
Connect PLC devices to other devices
An example is being able to install PLC devices in your home to improve internet signal. You will be able to connect other devices to the PLCs both by Wi-Fi and by cable, since many models allow both options. If you have Ethernet cables that you don’t use, you can take advantage of them to connect other devices here.
You will be able to connect devices such as a television, a game console, a computer, etc. Normally using a network cable instead of Wi-Fi will be more stable, so you will not have problems with cuts, high latency, etc.
Connect your mobile to the router and test
You could also try your mobile connected to the Internet by cable. For example, if you want to see the maximum speed that it supports or carry out some tests. And yes, you can connect your phone to an Ethernet cable directly to the router. Sometimes it is useful if you have problems using the Wi-Fi network for some reason.
What you are going to need is a USB C to Ethernet adapter. In this way, you can connect the Ethernet cable to your mobile and the router. It is very simple and you do not have to configure anything, since it is the same as if you connect it to the computer. Being Plug and Play, you won’t have to install drivers or anything.
Use an old router connected to the main one
Another use that you can give it is to connect a old router to main. Here you will be able to take advantage of it in different ways. You can configure some models as VPN, so you will be able to connect to your local network from anywhere in the world and browse with greater privacy.
Also, by connecting both routers by Ethernet cable you will be able to make the old router an access point. This way you can improve the network connection and have greater connectivity from other parts of the house.
Create or buy a NAS
Could you create your own NAS server and be able to access the content from anywhere if you connect it to the router via an Ethernet cable. It is another use that you will be able to give it. Very useful for creating backup copies, exchanging files between devices or using it as a multimedia server at home.
Another option is to directly buy a NAS. You will also be able to connect it to the router through an Ethernet cable. There are many NAS servers to create your own cloud and they are very useful in many situations.
As you see, you can use an old ethernet cable in various ways. If you have any unused at home, don’t throw it away as you could use it both in the short term and in the future if you decide to buy a NAS server, for example.
