Possible to use router strictly as switch/hub?

Here's my dilemma. I've been playing with my xbox and in order for me to read files from there to my comp, I need it readable thru my home network. The problem is, I can't find the system thru FTP programs. My setup coming from the high speed going to Router #1, this goes to a hub where my computer is fed to. At the hub, it goes off and connects to a second router where I have my game systems connected. I believe my problem is with my router setup. On my original router, I've setup addresses 192.168.0.1 to 192.168.0.50 and on the 2nd router, I continued it with 192.168.0.51 to 192.168.0.100. Theoretically, should I be able to access these systems thru my FTP program? Or would I have to actually get a hub/switch?

turn off dhcp in your other router.... then it'll become a switch

A router is just a glorified switch. Just don't use your WAN port, and you will have a perfectly functional switch, using the other available LAN ports.

I'm not sure that's strictly true in some cases. Yes, a router is a glorified switch but a slightly smarter one.

Once had an old wired SMC router with a known issue whereby if WAN wasn't connected the thing would not work correctly. The only way to get it to work as one was to break the firmware (this involved unplugging it during a flash). Only then would it stop crapping out whenever WAN wasn't line detected.

Anyway, you should be ok with the newer ones.

agreed. just turn off dhcp and you're set. I did the same thing with a wireless router that was added to an existing wired router and it works perfectly.

Originally Posted by ShadowVlican

turn off dhcp in your other router.... then it'll become a switch