1 computer, Bellsouth DSL, Dynamic IP

[thecoolnessrune]

I have a friend who got Bellsouth DSL Tuesday (Dial-up user). He has only 1 computer. Also, he is only using a Dynamic IP. Is there any benefits to having a router? Also, he has an XBOX. If he were to get XBOX live, would he need a router, or would a switch work fine?

 

[RebateMonger]

If your friend adds any more PCs or XBoxes, he'll either need a router or will need to pay BellSouth for additional IP addresses (if they even offer them). Additionally, routers provide some protection for your devices by their built-in Network Address Translation function, as well as the built-in firewall in recent routers.

Unless you have a good firewall, running a PC hooked directly to the Internet (no NAT, no firewall) is a very good way to pick up a worm.

 

[thecoolnessrune]

ok thx for the answer

 

[JackMDS]

In addtion using a Router (very inexpensive these days) keeps the connetion ON and let you get rid of the Quirky PPPOE.

http://www.ezlan.net/PPPOE.html

:sun:

 

[thecoolnessrune]

sorry I'm a broadband newb (using crappy Direcway). What is PPPOE? All I know is I was able to hook in their ethernet cable from the modem into the computer and everything worked immediately.

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: thecoolnessrune
sorry I'm a broadband newb (using crappy Direcway). What is PPPOE? All I know is I was able to hook in their ethernet cable from the modem into the computer and everything worked immediately.

The first few lines in the page link above mention the purpose of the PPPOE.

Post the make and Model number of the Modem it might be Modem/Router Combo.

:sun: