Do i really need a router?

[Doodoo]

I'm finally getting Optimum Online and was wondering if i needed a router to share the connection with my sisters' computer? Currently i'm on dialup and am using internet sharing through windows to share the connection. Can i continue to use the windows internet sharing or do i need a router?

 

[nightowl]

You can continue to use ICS but you will have to keep your computer on for her to access the Internet. With a router you will not have to keep your computer on for her to access the Internet as everything will be handled with the router. Also, a router will protect both PCs from the outside. Whereas right now, if you are not running a software firewall you have no protection.

 

[Doodoo]

so if i have zonealarm on my computer, will both computers be protected? or will only mine be? Thanks

 

[nightowl]

Both computers will be protected if you have ZoneAlarm on your computer. ZoneAlarm Pro is the only version to offically support ICS. Although you can get regular ZoneAlarm to work by lowering some of the security settings.

 

[JackMDS]

Take into consideration, that if the two of you are on surfing, and working on the computers, using such an arrangement will slow down the whole computing experience. ZoneAlarm can pop up on you because of what your sister is doing; other similar occurrences will take place too. (This is bad especially in the New York area where people don?t like to waist time on nonsense j/k).

Wait for a good rebate, and get a Router for less then $50.

 

[Pr0Hawk]

I tried sharing internet using like what you did, but it got so annoying I just went out and bought a router. They arent really expensive these days. I have seen Linksys routers go for $50 or less. You should get one.

 

[SaigonK]

You can get a Linksys Router (BEFSR41) with a built in 10/100 4-port switch for like $75.
Easy to config, and no hassles.
The latest firmware versions support ZoneAlarm as a firewall for all connected PC's.

 

[CSoup]

I'd go with a router since you can get one for around 50 dollars these days and it is more convenient. Also if you were to use ICS or other NAT software, you would need to get another NIC since you need two nics, one to hook up to the cable modem and one to hook up to your sister's computer.

 

[cipher00]

Well, you don't "need" a router, but then again you don't "need" to use the internet, either. But a router sure makes things a heckuvalot easier if you're sharing one connection with 2 (or more) computers. They're useful, come with helpful stuff, and aren't that expensive.

my 2¢

 

[JonS]

Before you go out and get a Linksys, you might want to read this: http://feedback.interplay.com/descent3/msg1/20576.html

I would recommend checking out Nexland instead...

 

[chuck2002]

Don't even consider ICS. Period. End of story.
Spend the cabbage on the router and go to sleep happy, or use ICS and go to sleep piss drunk after pulling your hair out for 48 hours..... It's your choice, either way it is gonna cost ya.

 

[SaigonK]

I have never had a problem with my Linksys unit, and i find that most problems with gaming are due to crouter configuration.
You HAVE to forward ports for some apps and games, with ANY router...thats the way it is.

 

[osage]

what Jack and the others said....get a router, you will enjoy the faster connection much more.

I found ICS to be a big pain in the A$$