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Can 2 computers share broadband internet using a switch?

you definitely need a router.

by definition a router re'routes' packets to different computers by translating the ip (via NAT).

a switch only looks at the mac or ip address and 'switches' the packet out hte correct port.
 
good explanation wkinney.

You can use one of the PC's to function as a router, however, the broadband would need to be directly attached to that designated machine. Also, the machine will need to be up at all times internet access is needed on the second machine.
 
Or find out if your ISP can give you more than one public IP address, in which case a switch would do the trick. A router, however, is definitely a smarter decision in terms of security on your home network. The price difference these days between a small switch and a soho router is certainly going to be less than the cost you would pay to your ISP each month for additional IP addresses.
 
just a technicality, but with the right switch, and/or some IP manipulation, it could be done. Not worth the trouble, buy a router.
 
Originally posted by: wkinney
you definitely need a router.

by definition a router re'routes' packets to different computers by translating the ip (via NAT).

a switch only looks at the mac or ip address and 'switches' the packet out hte correct port.
Click to expand...

That is incorrect information. You don't need a router, it depends on the ISP. For example, Verizon DSL gives out multiple public IPs for their service. In this case, all you need is a switch, or even a hub will do, but hubs are generally not recommended this day and age.

You would only need a router with NAT capability if your ISP gives out only 1 public IP.
 
Originally posted by: Imdmn04
Originally posted by: wkinney
you definitely need a router.

by definition a router re'routes' packets to different computers by translating the ip (via NAT).

a switch only looks at the mac or ip address and 'switches' the packet out hte correct port.
Click to expand...

That is incorrect information. You don't need a router, it depends on the ISP. For example, Verizon DSL gives out multiple public IPs for their service. In this case, all you need is a switch, or even a hub will do, but hubs are generally not recommended this day and age.

You would only need a router with NAT capability if your ISP gives out only 1 public IP.
Click to expand...

That of course requires your broadband to be dsl w/ PPPoE, with client configuration at the endpoints, limited by how many ips you're given.
 
Originally posted by: wkinney
Originally posted by: Imdmn04
Originally posted by: wkinney
you definitely need a router.

by definition a router re'routes' packets to different computers by translating the ip (via NAT).

a switch only looks at the mac or ip address and 'switches' the packet out hte correct port.
Click to expand...

That is incorrect information. You don't need a router, it depends on the ISP. For example, Verizon DSL gives out multiple public IPs for their service. In this case, all you need is a switch, or even a hub will do, but hubs are generally not recommended this day and age.

You would only need a router with NAT capability if your ISP gives out only 1 public IP.
Click to expand...

That of course requires your broadband to be dsl w/ PPPoE, with client configuration at the endpoints, limited by how many ips you're given.
Click to expand...


Um, you do NOT have to have dsl to have multiple IP's from your provider. Many Cable IPS's give multiple IP's if you pay for them, my previus one gave two free. Only Client configuration needed is done out of the box, Obtain IP address automatically.

 
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