Beginner in networking

um, each switch will have a starting number of open ports, it is best to choose a switch that has enough to start your project, and a few open spares, that can be used later, as you expand the network. switches are sold in a 4 port 8, 16, 24, 48, 64, 128 ports. you can also link two switches, to add more workstations, it would be better to have one switch, with as many open ports as needed, rather than linking. So plan ahead, and leave a few open ports for later upgrades