Networking Help

[EvilCrow]

Hi, I'm new to Ethernet networking.

I'd like to know what I should buy (inexpensive) to link 2 PCs together and both can share my DSL modem. I found Ethernet switches, but I don't understand where you hook in the DSL. And the port that's labled "Uplink" what is that for?

Thanks.

[Telexen]

Yes, but that's not a great idea as you'll need an IP address for each link you connect to the switch.

Your best option would be to buy a router...these are usually fairly cheap, about the cost of what a switch would be.

[EvilCrow]

Originally posted by Telexen
Yes, but that's not a great idea as you'll need an IP address for each link you connect to the switch.

Your best option would be to buy a router...these are usually fairly cheap, about the cost of what a switch would be.

Ah, thanks. And, the port labeled "WAN" is where I insert my DSL modem, correct?

[M_Six]

You'd be better off getting a cable/dsl router. A Linksys BEFSR41 for example. You hook it to your dsl modem and then hook all your PCs to it. Very easy to setup and it comes with a built-in firewall. Cheap, too.

EDIT: Whoa, I'm getting slow in my old age.

[EvilCrow]

Originally posted by M_Six
You'd be better off getting a cable/dsl router. A Linksys BEFSR41 for example. You hook it to your dsl modem and then hook all your PCs to it. Very easy to setup and it comes with a built-in firewall. Cheap, too.

EDIT: Whoa, I'm getting slow in my old age.

Thanks, I looked on NewEgg and found a router with the same capabilities for $32 from GigaFast, I think I'm going to purchase that instead of the Linksys router which was much more expensive.

[M_Six]

That's fine. D-Link also makes them. Doesn't really matter which one you get. They are all basically the same. I was just using the Linksys as an example. Good luck. Let us know if you need help setting it up.