In reply to a post by route64:

Thanks for quick reply.
Re 'assigning ip addresses' I meant modem not switch.
In read somewhere that the sky hub will automatically assign IP address . Will the hub handle the many devices whether hard wired or wifi?
Is it worth assigning static ip addresses to each of the devices? Why would you need to do this anyway? Or am I over complicating it?

So sky hub 4 ports going to 6 room sockets - do I have to use more switches to split the cable and should I spread the devices with most traffic equally over the 4 ports to maximise speed?
Also, what can I do to boost/extend wifi signal in farthest rooms?
Thanks

Agree with the other comments and in addition...

Locate the central switch (the 8 port Netgear) on your second story.

I believe the Ethernet ports on the Sky HUB are 100Mb/s only so do not use this as a central Ethernet switch. This might not seem important but if you later get a fast NAS box you may need Gb speeds.

Note that if you have switches connected to each other by an 'uplink' then this can restrict speed.

For comparison my setup includes...

A Virgin SH2 in the living room (4 * Gb ports) connected to TV, Sky+ & Xbox.
(SH2 provides wireless coverage also)
One uplink (Gb) to 5 port Gb switch in back bedroom connected to NAS, 2 * PC and Wireless AP (for use in Garden).

Ian

Pricing is customer dependent and based on who you are and how much you spend. Just call them for a price - they are quite friendly.

You are right about the 3, 4 or 6 x 4pr Cat5e or Cat6, a bit bulkier than four separate ones although easier to manage and route.

Gave them a call and yes they don't bite. HA3 media composite cable was about £170 for 100m so fairly good value if you ask me.

Thanks for putting me on to that reckon it's going to save some considerable time.

I phoned them yesterday PM for a price, finally called back at 4:15 with a small/medium order expecting delivery to be on Friday.

I was told they would try to ship "today" (Wednesday) and I said it was not a problem if it was not. However, 5 minutes ago, it arrived.

That is good service! They maybe a fraction more expensive than some places (occasionally) ... perhaps that is worth paying to get good service.