DSL & Networking

[alex]

I currently have a dsl line. If I am loggin on the desktop pc and then switch to use the laptop I need to open my browser and release the connection to the desktop pc first. Does this mean I can not setup a network to use the dsl line?

 

[TWL]

Originally posted by alex
I currently have a dsl line. If I am loggin on the desktop pc and then switch to use the laptop I need to open my browser and release the connection to the desktop pc first. Does this mean I can not setup a network to use the dsl line?

It is possible to share your DSL connection with either of the following:
1. If you have Windows 98SE or later and a second network card in your desktop, use ICS to share the connection. Of course, the desktop will need to be on in order for your other computers to have internet access.

2. You can get a DSL/Cable/Broadband router to replace your current DSL modem. This will share the internet connection to all computers connected to it.

For both options, you will need a hub or switch. But in the first option, you may get by with just using a cross-over cable to directly connect the desktop and laptop.

 

[Kizzy]

I pondered over this question when I read it, I immediately thought of option #2, not option #1 and quite frankly it seems like a PITA to do option #1, because option #2 is very easy to connect.

Now once he gets his router, he could also connect a wireless router to it and have a wireless connection on that laptop, provided he has a card. Right? But one question I have wondered about is what would the connection speed be like using DSL on a wireless router?

 

[moon5leg]

Originally posted by Editor
You can get a Wireless Router/Hub combo for next to nothing these days. Usually have 4 10/100-Mbits ports for your wired PCs. Be sure to get the "g" and not the "b" wireless equipment. It runs at up to 54 Mbps. I use Linksys (Cisco) and NetGear (Nortel Networks) equipment.

Using the "g" wireless, I can watch videos across the LAN with no delays or gaps. Large file xfers are also quite peppy. The "b" equipment I just upgraded performed in a less stellar manner.

I have heard that the 2.4GHz (?) wireless phones can interfere with the network.

Your performance using a router/hub should not be any worst than using a direct PC connection. Your local network speeds will be many times faster than the DSL pipe coming into your home.

Try TQCI on Rt 235 next to Blairs or Staples.

This is exactly right. You don't need a dsl router and a separate wireless device. They're built into each other. No matter what you get, you'll be running at faster speeds than cable or dsl are capable of reaching. Wireless "b" runs at 11 Mps, whereas DSL and Cable only reach 1 to 2 Mps on any sort of regular basis.

The 2.4 Ghz phones can cause issues with wireless networks, but it is very rare. I have wireless b and a 2.4 ghz cordless for 2 years and have never had the slightest problem with it. Just get a cordless phone that automatically channel hops and you'll be fine.

 

[Danzig]

My 2.4 wireless phone ALWAYS cuts me off line. I use wireless all the time. as a matter of fact I am sitting out back in the rain 'under a gazebo next to a fire typing this now.

 

[alex]

I thought of Option #2 cause then I could also add my son's pc to the connect. But I was concerned because the of the connection release I have to do now. If I buy the hardware - router and wireless hub can I return it if it doesn't work with my ISP?