We’ve relaxed the portion of the [IRIS Network Policy](https://iris.eecs.berkeley.edu/30-policies/network-policy/) that governs use of local switches on the IRIS network.

You may now use almost any model of unmanaged Ethernet switch to connect multiple registered devices to any single network jack on the IRIS network. Additionally, local switches no longer have to be registered by serial number to a specific network jack’s Cable ID.

The [Helpdesk](https://iris.eecs.berkeley.edu/help/) has [recommended models](https://iris.eecs.berkeley.edu/30-policies/network-policy/best-practices.html#recommended-switches) of 5-port switches available for sale, and we encourage you to choose these; they’re known to work well.

Please review the [Best Practices](https://iris.eecs.berkeley.edu/30-policies/network-policy/best-practices.html#local-switches) for use of switches. Routers (including NAT,) managed switches (anything with it’s own MAC address,) and Ethernet hubs are still prohibited.