Overall networking issue...

I have the problem that I have to install a server on a larger professional 100Mbit/s CAT-5 network (with about 100 desktop computers connected and up to 2-300 more on wireless connections). This network already has a well-functioning structure, where it is easy to transmit information at speeds up to 100Mbit/s (the network works). My problem is that I am not happy with the 100Mbit/s restrictions. The server already has gigabit network card(s)... And I am wondering how/if it will be possible to use the gigabit speed without having to change the basic structure of the network. Because the network is already up and running, I will get a hard time finding the funds to change everything, and since 100Mbit/s is sufficient in the vast majority of situations, it should not be necessary.

What would happen if one for instance attached a standard (cheap) unmanaged gigabit switch (eg. a D-Link DGS-1008D) for such a network. The server for one port, and the remaining 8 ports connected to the existing 100Mbit/s network (we can find 8 vacant ports in the existing structure). Would this give any increase in network speed with the possibility of 2 (or more) computers at the same time being able to use the data from the server at speeds closer to the 100Mbit/s. According to benchmarks the server can read and write the data quite a bit faster than required by a gigabit connection.

I apologize if this is an absolutely ridiculous question. My hands-on experience with this aspect of larger networks is unfortunately limited, and therefore I hope for constructive advice from you.

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Best regards Jacob Tranholm <http://jtranholm.dk/>
Karl R. Popper: Observation statements and statements of experimental results are always interpretations of the facts observed.
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