Connecting Broadband to 2 Computers.

My Broadband is through my USB port. Is it possible to connect my BB to another computer as well as this one does anyone know? and if so....how?

Cheers.

 

Geordie,

I have cable interent and have both my computers hooked up to it. All I did was hook them up to a Linksys router (BEFSR41) with CAT5e cable. The router is then hooked to the cable modem. Both systems now cruise through the Internet on the same connection. The worst part was running the cable downstairs and through a wall. You could also go wireless, but I preferred wired.

I bought my router at Radio Shack and got the cable at Staples.


Mike

 

I have no idea about the hardware side of Computers, and would have a clue what a router is !

I was thinking about buying a laptop to go with my PC, but if I cant get access through both off the same connection I wasnt going to bother.

I'll post nearer the time if I do go to get a laptop and need some assistance.

Cheers.

 

You'll need a network card in each computer. A network card is sort of like a modem except it doesn't connect to a phone line; it connects to a network hub or a router via a CAT5 cable with RJ45 terminals on each end. The RJ45 terminals on each end look exactly like a stadard modular phone terminal, except larger. As a matter of fact, RJ45 terminals are used on phone systems that have 6 lines coming into the same phone (sometimes).

A router is a box into which you run a cable from each computer to the box. There is another port on the box that looks exactly like all the other ports except it is usually marked "WAN" for Wide Area Network or "Internet ". The WAN port or the Internet port (same port but just called differently by different companies who make the router) is where you would plug the connection from the internet.

You will want to change over from a USB internet connection to an ethernet connection to use this setup. It is simply a matter of swapping your current USB thingy for an ethernet type.

You can buy network cards on the internet for $5 and up and if you know where to shop, you can get them at some local supply stores for $12 and up.

I found a router at WalMart (Network Everywhere brand) for $50 this week. Then you'll need the network wires to connect it all up. I've used Network Everywhere brand products many times and always with good results.

So, you will probably spend about a hundred dollars, more or less, and, if this is your first time, maybe some beating your head against the wall. After it is set up, you'll see how simple it is; but, until you get it working that first time, you'll probably do a lot-o-cussin.

 

You're all missing the point.

You'll need to look around for a USB router. There really is no other option to share broadband with USB.
Beware, they are rather expensive, and not available in the US, as far as I know.

 

Geordie,

What type brand/model of broadband modem do you have?

The key here is whether your broadband modem offers a ethernet jack in addition to the USB connection you are currently using. We have established that your broadband is through your USB port on your comptuer but does your modem have any other connections on the back?

If there is an ethernet jack on the modem then, in my opinion, sharing the connection with a router, as others have suggested, is the way to go.

If the only way to connect to your modem is through the USB interface then it can get complicated.

There are ways to share a USB broadband connection, but let us know what type of modem and the model number first.

ICE

 

For all the trouble I've seen with boradband USB, I would change to ethernet.

 

From what I have read, seen and heard I would agree.

I have a Linksys ( etherent ) BEFSR41 Router and four machnes are online as I write.

I am on Netscape. My Wife is checking Eudora E-Mail. One kid is on AIM and one is somewhere else.

And the BEST part is ALL machines are independent. One or four on makes no difference.

BillyBob

 

As long as the Router and Modem are constantly powered that is.

 

Actually, I use one of these:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?sku=S199-1002
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3404067453&category=28029 (I got 5 of these for $4.95 each).

I carry them to connect when network cards are being replaced or there is a possible card problem. They work fine. I get speeds comparable to Ethernet and installation is by plugging it in.

For a cheap solution that works well, I'd suggest 2 of these and a router. My $29.95 D-Link works very well.