Network question

[Homer J]

OK, I have a cable modem that runs through a wired router to my computer and XBox 360. My question is this, I am looking into moving to Vonage for my phone service. Since the modem must remain on all the time for the phone to work, is there any way to disconnect the computer when I am not actively on the interweb without just unplugging the network cable? Currently we just switch the modem to standby but if we get Vonage we won't be able to do that. Is there a switch that I can get to go between the router and the computer?

I know most people just leave theirs connected but I would rather not do that.

 

[Lugnut]

OK, I have a cable modem that runs through a wired router to my computer and XBox 360. My question is this, I am looking into moving to Vonage for my phone service. Since the modem must remain on all the time for the phone to work, is there any way to disconnect the computer when I am not actively on the interweb without just unplugging the network cable? Currently we just switch the modem to standby but if we get Vonage we won't be able to do that. Is there a switch that I can get to go between the router and the computer?

I know most people just leave theirs connected but I would rather not do that.

You can disable the network connection in windows. Would that work for you?

 

[GWguy]

OK, I have a cable modem that runs through a wired router to my computer and XBox 360. My question is this, I am looking into moving to Vonage for my phone service. Since the modem must remain on all the time for the phone to work, is there any way to disconnect the computer when I am not actively on the interweb without just unplugging the network cable? Currently we just switch the modem to standby but if we get Vonage we won't be able to do that. Is there a switch that I can get to go between the router and the computer?

I know most people just leave theirs connected but I would rather not do that.

If you want Vonage, you have no choice but to leave the modem on all the time. There is a Vonage device that can replace your modem, but it too would need to be left on all the time. You could logically disable your computer Ethernet connection with a couple of keystrokes, or just shut the computer off. However, as long as the modem or computer is off, you are not getting virus and software updates, putting you at greater risk when you do turn on the computer or modem. Not to mention that when you do go back on the air, any patches and updates that are waiting will come downline slowing you down. Better that all happens overnight and not when you really need to get something done.

 

[Major Bawls]

Use an 4/8/16 whatever port switch. Output from the modem goes to the input to the switch. Then use an ouput from the switch to go to the Vongae device, your computer or whatver else you like. Well, at least this is the way I do it as I have several computers hooked in wired and wireless including a 360. Also, depending on the type of cable modem you choose you may have to configure the modem to allow the vonage device to operate outside of the firewall.