Port replication in an electronic device that allows for a single network controller

A portable device comprising:

• a network connector;
• a portable connection port;
• a switch operably coupled to the network connector and the portable connection port;
• and
• a network controller operably coupled to the switch, wherein the switch routes signals from the network controller to one of the connectors.

A method of operation for a portable device coupled to a docking station, wherein the method comprising the acts of:

• (a) transmitting signals from a network controller in the portable device to a switch;
• (b) transmitting signals from the switch to a network connector of the portable device in response to the network connector of the portable device being coupled to a network;
• and
• (c) transmitting signals from the switch to a network connector in the docking station in response to the network connector in the docking station being coupled to a network.

A method for manufacturing a portable device, wherein the method comprising the acts of:

• (a) providing a network controller;
• (b) coupling the network controller to a switch;
• and
• (c) coupling the switch to a network connector and a portable connection port.