Hi Christian,
In system pref/network/ ethernet configuration / manual advanced mode i have 3 options : 10baseT/UTP - 100 base TX - and 1000 base T all with different duplex semi duplex etc...options.
i tried to force to 1000 base T but then Ethernet doesn't seems to work, basicaly it works in 100 base TX when connected to my router 4 port witch is connected to the freebox (witch is like another router as i understand it)
If follow your explanation i could leave this in automatic mode as it find the apropriate connection speed, but i thought like for manual IP adress vs DHCP i should set it up manually so it is stable...
For the cable i'll see what happens when i'll connect a Giga switch into my network and then test VE3 and see if it works fine.
As for the switch i'll have to do further research because what i found is a : TRENDNET TEG-S80TXE (8 port around 50 euros)and it was used on Mac G4 !! and need a PCI slot available !! i'm not getting this very clear i admit but as i said, need to be looked closer...
otherwise they are plenty of 24 or 26 port switch for around 100 euros and that's probably what you think i should get...right ? (even if i don't need so many ports)
cheers
stephane