DSL and Router

I have just installed DSL on my computer and want ot set it up for two additional computers. I assume I need a router to do so. What is the purpose of the switch, I was told to make sure my router had switch. Does the DSL hook to the router and then all Net cards hook to it as well, does it act like a hub?
I have set up before using sharing of an internal modem over the network but not as yet DSL.
Thanks for any help.

 

You'll find everything which you need to know here.

 

brett's link is indeed a "soup to nuts" run down on doing just what you intend.

Short answer though is yes, a switch does act like a hub except lots smarter and faster. And the modern router/switch devices made for small networks like the one you plan will also act as DHCP servers to assign TCP/IP settings to all the network PCs (to save you having to worry about it), provide you with a firewall, and some other nice features.

 

BIG thing here: Ask around about compatibility. Often times the techs for your DSL ISP will not be able to provide support for routers, but they CAN tell you which ones they know from experience (personally or from other customers) will or will not work with their setup. Ask 'em for buzzwords on what your router should support, and check out the routers online for those options - BEFORE you buy - oftentimes you'll think you bought what you needed, just to have the model down from the one you thought - $20 less and a big headache more.

Case and point - locally, Qwest contracts with MSN to provide Qwest customers a packaged service - MSN uses PPPoE to set things up - if'n your router supports PPPoE, you usually have no headaches with setup. If'n your router doesn't, then people like me get to make some moola doing the setup. (Non-PPPoE routers DO work just fine locally, it's just not a plug n' play option with MSN for the most part.)