Router? LAN? ICS? Huh?

[Jeff7181]

Ok, I know the basic differences between those... but I want to know which is simplest to set up, cheapest to setup, and performs the best.

I have a computer with Win XP Pro, it's an Athlon 1700 with 512 mb DDR, fast enough hard drive, NIC, blah blah blah.
The other one is an old 233 Mha K6 with Windows 98. It has a 2 GB hard drive and 256 mb RAM and an NIC card, and no USB.

I want to be able to share files between computers, and I want the old 233 Mhz computer to be able to access the internet. I don't need blazing speed, in fact, I would like to be able to limit the bandwidth that computer can use if possible.

So... My question is, how should I configure them so I can do all that? The limit on bandwidth isn't necessary, but would be nice. File sharing between them is a must, and internet sharing is a must.

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[JackMDS]

1. Simplest to set up? Entry Level Cable/DSL Router.

2. Cheapest to setup? If your time is valuable? Entry Level Cable/DSL Router, otherwise ICS.

3. Performs the best. Entry Level Cable/DSL Router.

If you don't care about the above solutions, you want the trill of learning new OS, and you have a spare old computer that can be dedicated for this purpose alone, then the answer would be Linux Box.

To summarize.

You want the learn tough stuff? Linux Box

You want to be part of the 21st century? Entry Level Cable/DSL Router.

You are totally broke, or and like trouble? ICS.

Limit bandwidth? Some of the Linux boxes can do this.

Entry Level Hardware, and or software using Windows, no can do!

Very expensive Hardware Routers, can do!

 

[piasabird]

If you already have 2 computers networked it is easiest to add a Cable Modem/DSL Router. This is due to the ability to share a static/dynamic IP with multiple computers. You dont have to change the compuers settings, only the routers.

With ICS you set up the networking and then the Modem and then the ICS. It is a little tricky to set up but it works somewhat.

There is another method using 2 NIC cards, but some PC's will not even like having 2 NIC cards in one computer.

An alternate route you did not think of is getting 2 static IP numbers and buying a Motorola 4200 Surf Board Cable Modem. This cable modem has bridged USB and Ethernet ports. Both Computers can use the Cable Modem at the same time. According to Motorola it is feasable.

The best way is to use a Router in cases where you plan on using cable Modem or DSL.

If you have to use the cheapest; Dialup access, you could use a switch or crossover cable and use ICS.

Here is a pretty good website:

Home Net Help

 

[Jeff7181]

I guess I forgot to mention I have cable internet access. 128/1500

My RCA modem has both USB and Ethernet ports, although I don't know if it's possible to use both at the same time.

I asked the cable company if they allow me to use a router, and they said yes, and I may also buy a 2nd IP addres for an additional $7 per month. They say each IP address will have the full bandwidth that my service provides. So that may be an option.

But I don't really want to spend an additional $7 per month... I don't need all that extra bandwidth on the 2nd computer anyway, basically I just want enough speed for e-mail and some web browsing, and maybe some Instant Messaging program like AIM or Yahoo Messenger.

Both computers have a 10/100 NIC card in them, and I would like to be able to use the full 100 mbps between them if possible. But with a 2 GB hard drive on my 2nd computer, I guess I couldn't transfer such large files that a 100 mbps link would be necessary anyway.

I have experimented with Linux, but I am certain not proficient by any means. I started with Mandrake, used the GUI, and it just doesn't make sense to me, so I'm guessing setting up a Linux box as a router is beyond my abilities.

A Router looks like the best solution for me. As long as I can share files between computers without having to use the internet to do it.
Can I do that?

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: Jeff7181 As long as I can share files between computers without having to use the internet to do it.
Can I do that?

Yes you can.

Actually you can install NetBEUI, and use it for local traffic.

Doing so you don?t need to be connected to the Internet or to use IP numbers.

More info here:

AnandTech - FAQ. Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing

AnandTech - FAQ. Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?


And, please no one need to start another silly NetBEUI war.

 

[Jeff7181]

I've heard a lot of people having problems with that... is it really that difficult to make work? Or is it just one of those things where you have to follow the directions?

 

[ktwebb]

I've heard a lot of people having problems with that

NetBEUI??? It's basically idiot proof. The only hoop you'd have to jump through is installing it on the XP machine since it's not supported natively. You have to have the CD in or have copied over the I386 directory to your hard drive. Still easy and NetBEUI is a brainless transmission protocol. Chatty and not good for a large LAN but easy, fast and generally a pretty good idea for small LAN's that want easy administration and security of their network.

 

[Jeff7181]

Ok then... Will Windows XP or 98 (the two OS's on the computers) have a setup wizard or somethin like that? Or can you point me to a website that explains in detail or step by step how I should do it?

Also, what should I look for when buying a router. Obviously a router =) But are there any features I should have, or need? I don't think I need massive security, I've been running broadband with just a virus scanner for a few years now and don't have a problem, and I don't have sensative information stored on my computer that I'm worried about others getting access to.
I've heard that routers act as a firewall because of NAT or somethin... is that true for all routers? And would that cause any problems with stuff like internet based games, like Counter-Strike... or with transferring files through services like Yahoo Messenger, AIM, or uploading to my web space provided by my ISP?

*EDIT* If you could reccomend a reasonably priced router that would be helpful too. So I can look at the details and specs on it and see if I can find another one that's comparable but maybe costs less since I don't have a whole lot of money to spend. If I did, I'd just get a 2nd cable modem and IP address, lol.