LAN Internet Access

[erethryn]

Hi,

Trying to figure out what hardware I need to access the internet via a LAN, from 2 computers, one permanently connected, and the other a laptop which would be temporarily connected.

Would I be able to connect both computers to a hub/switch using patch cables then connect the hub/switch to the LAN point with a crossover cable, or would I require a router to be able to do this?

Thanks

[CMP 2003]

you could use a router. IMO best option, but it is possible just to connect your computer to the internet via ethernet, and use a 2nd ethernet card, to connect to the laptop(crossover cable). You can share the internet to the laptop using many free programs, but I'm quite sure windows will let you do it.

Connecting the two computers would also work using Firewire, although it is not a convenient option.

[HeadBand]

most isps will only give you 1 ip without charging more so a simple switch would not work, a router will take the external ip and distribute internal ips to each computer, as stated windows can act as a dhcp server with two network cards but it would take up some system resources (but you would use straight cable not crossover)

[CMP 2003]

I've used the firewire method before, without being charged for Networking. ISP is Bellsouth.

[kwebb]

The cheapest method would be to put a second NIC into the host machine (the one connected to your modem) and then use a crossover cable from the second NIC to the client machine(the laptop). If your modem is USB or your using a dialup account you only need one NIC in the host machine.

The better alternative, though a bit more costly is to get the aforementioned router with integrated switch. You will however still need a network card (NIC) in each machine or you could go wireless as well if you wanted mobility on the laptop.

[originel]

what is your internet setup like? you say hook up to a "lan point"...what is that exactly? a cable or dsl modem? net hookup at work/school?

if it's the former the other guys covered it. If it's the latter then a hub should work fine.

[erethryn]

what is your internet setup like? you say hook up to a "lan point"...what is that exactly? a cable or dsl modem? net hookup at work/school?

if it's the former the other guys covered it. If it's the latter then a hub should work fine.

It's a work LAN, so you'd say a hub should be okay (ie. router not required?)

Would I need to uplink from the hub using a crossover or straight cable?

If it comes to it, when I finally get the computers set-up, I have my own hub and both types of cables, so I can test it out before I invest in anymore hardware. Just thought I'd try and get as much info as possible.

Thanks for your feedback.

[lone1dog]

I say all you need is a good hub and cable easy deal IMO