D-Link DFE-530TX+ in a home network

[Woody419]

I have a couple of D-Link DFE-530TX+ network adaptors and am going to network just two computers. I am using the original Windows 98 (no ICS) on both machines. I am planning to share fines and my DSL connection using Sygate Home Network software. Would a Cat 5 crossover cable work with the D-Link's or would I be better off getting a router like the D-Link Di704p on sale at Best Buy?

 

[ojai00]

IMO, I think it would be better off to get the router because it will allow your other computer to get online without having your computer on. If you were to do ICS, your computer would have to be on in order for the other computer to get online. But if you plan to do ICS with Sygate, you have to get another NIC and use a crossover cable to connect that to the other computer and the DSL connection to that other NIC in your computer. Hope this helps.

 

[Doh!]

Get a router, I have been sharing the internet with several computers in my house but having to turn on the sever computer to use ICS (or any other NAT-based software such as sysgate's home network software) is rather cumbersome. As said above, with a router, you only have to turn on the computer that will use the internet. You can find cheap routers for around $30~$40 these days.

 

[Swanny]

I'd agree. A cheap router is the way to go.

 

[Woody419]

Thanks guys.
Another question. Do you need to use a router to get the 100Mbs with a 10/100 card or can just a crossover cable between two computers without a router reach that speed or would the connection be limited to only 10Mbs?

 

[MoMeanMugs]

You can get 100Mbps with a crossover cable.

 

[Woody419]

Thanks. I just picked up the D-Link router on sale at BB for $29. Too good of a deal to pass on.