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DSL and Network

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by borginva

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I was not sure if I am to put this in the XP section or not, so I am putting a copy there as well....

I just got Verizon DSL on my XP Pro using my Ethernet card (sacrificing my home network). My other system is 98SE. What I need to know is what is the cheapest way to make both systems use the DSL for the Internet and still access each other?

Now, I have no available slots in my XP system, but I do in the 98SE. I have extra Ethernet cards too.

Can I, for example, hook up the additional card in the 98 system and hook up DSL that way and use Internet Sharing? Will both computers use the DSL at the same time (of course the host 98 has to be on) and still have both machines access each other? Is that possible?

Do I need a router, orhub, or both instead?
Please tell me what I can do and try. I know little on networks and, of course, am new to DSL (well, in my own home that is).
I am actually on a deadline of several days (free trial). I need my network and both machines to use DSL. My sacrifice I mentioned above can only be temporary.

Please assist.

13 replies

by parvus1202

There is router/modem with 4 port that you can use to connect to 1 or more computer. But of course the more computer connected the slower your browsing. Go to this site and get more info ...//http://www.comsal.co.uk/

by borginva

Sorry. I did not go this route (no pun).

I am awarding to the MOST used suggestions, and I am sorry I did not go with every answer. Also, I am not awarding to the same people on both this copy of the post and one in another board (as I stated inmy question).

by ann777

Follow these instructions on how to home network:
http://www.pcnineoneone.com/howto/hmnetwk1.html

Yes, the best way is to purchase and install a cable/dsl router and connect one of the four ports to each of your computers. Configure the cable/dsl router for DHCP and let it handle the obtaining of your external IP address from your ISP (ie configure your account information inside the router and either of the computers may access the www without both having to be one). IMHO that's the easiest way to go with installing any second nic and the conflicts inherent in that configuration.

I recommend home user to purchase one of the LinkSys Cable/DSL Routers since they offer 24/7 and toll-free telephone support (and a one-year warranty).

by ann777

Sorry, my fingers are frozen this morning.

If you purchase a Cable/DSL Router, only one of your computers have to be on -- not both.

That's the easiest way to go "without" installing a second nic ... which tends to create resource conflicts with some OSes and systemboard configurations.

by borginva

I actually got a Netgear RP614 router for 60 with a 30 rebate. However, this site you gave looks very helpful. I like these type of tech websites. So.... POINTS!

I am awarding to the MOST used suggestions, and I am sorry I did not go with every answer. Also, I am not awarding to the same people on both this copy of the post and one in another board (as I stated in my question).

by timwalsh

Recommendations:

Hub/Switch: One of these devices will allow multiple computers to share a single Internet connection. I would go this route rather than multiple NICs. This will allow you to expand your network in the future.

Router/Firewall: There are many "Cable/DSL routers" on the market that also act as firewalls. I would highly recommend one for anybody that has a broadband Internet connection. Unless you are diligent about turning off your computer when you aren't using it, youhave an "always-on" Internet connection. This leaves your network wide open to all the ne'r-do-wells that skulk around the Internet. A firewall will prevent this.

Many ISPs also place a limit on the number of computers they will allow to connect from a given location. The Router/Firewalls on the market provide a capability called Network Address Translation (NAT). This protocol shows a single IP address to the outside world while allowing as many as 254 computers to be connected to an internal private network. These routers also function as DHCP servers to automatically provide your computers with private IP addresses.

Most vendors provide Router/Firewalls versions that have built-in hubs/switches, so you don't have multiple boxes taking up valuable real estate on your desk.

Hope this helps.

by borginva

I really needed to know a bit more on what to do, but thanks. I knew what they did but I needed to know what I actually needed. I had people telling me, for example, routers are not the answer, but a switch and hub (together) would. I needed to knowwhat I had to do to get it all working. Sorry.

I am awarding to the MOST used suggestions, and I am sorry I did not go with every answer. Also, I am not awarding to the same people on both this copy of the post and one in another board (as I stated in my question).

by borginva

I forgot to mention that when it comes to firewalls, I have software for it, and when the Internet is not being used, I disconnect the DSL.

by borginva

A reminder.... I not only need both computers to be able to access the Internet via the DSL, but to also access each other locally for sharing files and the printer.

by noyb2001

Verizon assigns DHCP IP address by the MAC address of the NIC card (at least they do in parts of Texas). Try setting the XP box and the win 98 box to obtain automatically. Plug both of these machines into a hub and run a cable form the hub to the DSL Modem (you may need a crossover cable depending on hub/dslmodem).

by borginva

Sorry. Did not do this.

I am awarding to the MOST used suggestions, and I am sorry I did not go with every answer. Also, I am not awarding to the same people on both this copy of the post and one in another board (as I stated in my question).

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