It's time to network my machines!

[d1abolic]

Alright, i finally have the time to get my two PCs up on a network. Problem is, i have no experience with networking and have no idea how to do that. I want to hook up the two machines, and in the future, an Xbox. What parts am i going to need, how much will they cost me?

 

[Paladin]

I'm assuming that you are talking about networking them so they can both have cable or DSL access. if so, all you need is this

That will serve as a DHCP server for your computers (automatically assign them IP addresses.). Then you can also enable file sharing, and both can get on the net.

 

[cleverhandle]

You could go El Cheapo and just get a crossover cable for the two PC's for about $25. But that wouldn't accomodate an X-Box later. If you want more expandability, you need a hub or switch (switches are a bit better, though not a big deal on such a small network) and some Cat 5 cable to connect the PC's to the switch. The switch will cost about $40-$50, and the cables will cost about $10-20 (?) depending on the length. Then about $20 per NIC if you don't have them already.

Edit: I wasn't assuming you wanted network sharing. That would be a little different setup.

 

[OneOfTheseDays]

if u hate the messy wiring that CAT 5 creates and traditional lans create, i suggest you go wireless. Get yourself two DLINK USB WIRELESS 802.11 ADAPTORS. make sure they are USB. I got a great deal on the cards so it only cost me $120 for everything, keep in mind this was months ago and prices are now way cheaper. The speeds aren't as good as traditional lan but they are good enough for gaming and minimal file sharing and internet sharing. I suggest you take a look at practicallynetworked.com to get a better idea about networking.

 

[d1abolic]

Do i need that router for $80? I would much rather just get a hub. Unless that will severely lower my pings on the Xbox?

Also, i don't think wireless is for me. I already have the holes drilled for satellite cable so i might as well just put another cable through em.

 

[cleverhandle]

If you're going to share a connection, you will be doing yourself a large favor by buying the router, especially since you'll need to spend ~$40 on a switch anyway. It is sometimes possible to share a connection without the router, but a lot of the time people give up on that after a lot of wasted time and buy the router anyway. Unless that extra $40 or so is critical to you, save yourself the possible frustration.

 

[JackMDS]

You cab start with a little education.

Read the content of the following Links:

Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing

Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?

Comparing Cable/DSL Routers. (Link of Courtesy of: TallGeese ).

The Wireless Solution.