I would like to purchase a Gigabit ethernet switch (8 port) to upgrade my home network, can anyone recommend a good brand please?

Is it possible to get features such as SPI firewall in a switch or do I need a router?
Is a hardware firewall even worth it if all the computers on the network are running software firewalls?

TIA.
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Peter.

"I spent 90% of my money on women, drink and fast cars. The rest I wasted." - George Best