How does a router work?

[igowerf]

I'm ordering DSL soon and I want to set up some sort of connection sharing. I have two computers in the house and currently, I am using ICS to connect to the internet. I want to set up the network so that I won't have to connect through the other computer. Will a router let me do that? I already have an 8 port switch. Can I use that in place of a router? What are the advantages of having a router? I've tried reading guides but they don't explain much. Thanks in advance.

 

[Russ]

You didn't already ask this question someplace else, did you?😉

No, your switch will not work in place of a router. A switch is used to connect systems on the same physical segment, a router is used to connect systems to a different physical segment.

Since, clearly, the internet is a different physical segment, you would need a router.

But, since you already have a switch, one of the single port routers will work just fine for you.

When you order your DSL, make sure you get an EXTERNAL ethernet modem, not an internal or USB.

Russ, NCNE

 

[ScottMac]

Yes, you can use your switch, but you'll need to order an IP address from your ISP for each computer. You should also have some sort of firewall program running on both computers (unless you don't care about the security issues).

Depending on the device the ISP give you, you may need a crossover cable between the cable modem and the switch...usually not, but it's a possibility.

IP address are usually ~US$5.00 each after the first one, sometimes they're free (not usually).

Good Luck

Scott

 

[spidey07]

must.....refrain.....from......posting......really geeky technical stuff.😛

 

[Russ]

Spidey,

Go ahead, I'll read it. I won't understand half of it, but I'll read it.🙂

Russ, NCNE

 

[igowerf]

Ok. So from what I've gathered, a router lets several computers connect using the same IP address and a switch requires that I get an IP address for each computer. Am I on the right track?
I'm ordering DSL from Pacbell and I know that the modem is external.

 

[JackMDS]

Both Router, and a Hub/Switch is needed for Internet Sharing.

Read this it will put you on the right track:

Hub, Switch, Router, DHCP, LAN, WAN, NAT, etc. - Basic Primer.