how do i set up my network....? router...? ummm??

[Colt45]

okay my dad has a cele466 with @home cable. soon my sis will have a socket7 board and processor of sumtype, and i will have a cele366.
i will have enough spare stuff to build another computer, can you make a computer a router???
im kinda confused with this stuff.. can someone explain to me?

 

[Russ]

<< can you make a computer a router??? >>



Yes, you can. Install some form of proxy software such as Sygate or AnalogX if Windows, or just make it a Freesco machine. Install two NICs. Run one to the cable modem, another to a switch. Plug the other systems in to the switch.

Or save yourself a lot of grief and do it the right way: Buy one of the many consumer level cable/DSL routers with built in switch.

Russ, NCNE

 

[Colt45]

i think i can od that, but where can i get a switch and how much $$ are they?
thanks

 

[Ladi]

Figure about $100-150 (plus or minus rebates and such) for a 1 or 4-port cable/dsl router. Linksys, Netgear, SMC, and many other companies make at least one flavor. Search other posts for reviews, comments, etc.

They're all fairly fast and easy to set up and maintain/admin.

~Ladi

 

[Colt45]

but what about a switch to hook up to my box if i make one?
whats the retail on those?

 

[Ladi]

With a 4-port (or above) router, you won't need a separate switch or hub.

~Ladi

 

[Colt45]

i know, but what if i use a computer.. cuz i already got one i dont need.

 

[spidey07]

buy the router/switch. you'll thank yourself in the long run.

<edit> try fresco @ freesco.org it you wanna play around with making a router out of a computer if you really have that much time on your hands.

 

[Colt45]

oh ok ill try that when i get my systems up and running

 

[Dyngoe]

Hi,
I also enjoy having a switch/router, but there are drawbacks. Routers allow alot less configuration than a PC running as a proxy or NAT. A PC has almost limitless configurations, which are in my oppinion very fun to tweak. If you have an extra PC, that will mean you have a total of 4? 1-you 1-sis 1-dad 1-PROXY? In this case, you will need NICs for each PC and at least a 4 port switch, hub, or switch/router. Your cheapest method would probably be to buy a network in a box kit from linksys or netgear. You should be able to find one on sale for around $50. This will giv you two NICs and a hub or a switch. Try to get a switch, as they are much better 100mb/s speeds. If you already have all the NICs you need, then just buy a switch. Get four cat5 cables and have at it. Look around for different software, each is unique. I like Wingate and Sygate as well as Winproxy. Hope this helps.
As Always,
D