What about splitting work between TWO computers? One is never connected to the 'net'

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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I have a notebook already (P-III 866M) and a desktop (1.2 Ghz Tualatin Celeron) currently.
I am going to build a new P4 machine as soon as I get the MBs/RAM sorted out. However, what about splitting "duties" between the machines?

My notebook is fine for just about everything BUT gaming. I actually prefer it for 'net surfing and many office apps.

What do you think of a 'dedicated' gaming machine that is never hooked up to the 'net? No need for firewall, anti-virus, trojan defenders, browser, etc.. Any updates I need can be transferred from my laptop via CDRW.

What are your thoughts? It seems a lot less complicated this way.
 

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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Is this just a really 'stupid' idea?

Are there any disadvantages to my plan? It seems that there are some advantages for a computer that is never connected to the net (less complicated and no chance of infection).

If there are no answers, I'll let it go and pursue my plan. :p
 

Mavrick007

Diamond Member
Dec 19, 2001
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What? No online gaming? Why don't you go back to using chalk and a blackboard?
I hear you can get a pretty good game of tic-tac-toe going with just that hardware. ;)

But seriously, is it that hard to set up the antivirus progy or the firewall? I don't see why you need so many computers unless you have alot of people over to game with your fine components instead of bringing over their own. It just sounds like a waste is all to me but more power to ya. If you really need a good gaming rig, why not build a new one and then unload the Cele?
 

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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Originally posted by: Mavrick007
What? No online gaming? Why don't you go back to using chalk and a blackboard?
I hear you can get a pretty good game of tic-tac-toe going with just that hardware. ;)

But seriously, is it that hard to set up the antivirus progy or the firewall? I don't see why you need so many computers unless you have alot of people over to game with your fine components instead of bringing over their own. It just sounds like a waste is all to me but more power to ya. If you really need a good gaming rig, why not build a new one and then unload the Cele?

First of all, I don't do online gaming (dial-up). However, I do enjoy FPS and other 3D games.

I am planning to sell my Celly rig . . . and build a new P4 from scratch. I never intend to give up my notebook (I travel a bit).

My question involves splitting the duties between 2 machines - 1 (my notebook) for office apps and web surfing; 2 (my desktop) for 'entertainment' including gaming and DV editing.

Why would I ever want to hook up my desktop to the 'net?
 

Mavrick007

Diamond Member
Dec 19, 2001
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Sure, that makes sense. I would probably do that myself and not worry as much about virus' and intruders. One computer could be used for the net and on the road while the other could be your hard core gaming machine eliminating clutter from all these temp internet files.

Now if you were using high speed and enjoyed online games, then I wouldn't limit my desktop to not be connected but I would just use it for games and leave the other to do office apps and web content. Sounds like a plan, I'd do that.
 

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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Thank-you. (I was making sure I hadn't totally 'lost it' or there were disadvantages for a non-'net machine.) :)

I guess, if I ever get high speed Internet, I can network my desktop to my notebook. Some day . . . :sigh;
 

Markfw

Moderator Emeritus, Elite Member
May 16, 2002
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Here are a few disadvantages: Can't update (easily) the service pack/patches for Windows. Can't update or get (easily) patches for your games or drivers. Can't use that great big screen to browse the web (for most of us with a 19'' or bigger) The drivers/patches would be my biggest concern. I am a big gamer, but not an on-line gamer, same as you. I want to play against the computer, and at my own pace with the esc key to pause my game when I want to get a beer, etc...
 

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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Originally posted by: Markfw900
Here are a few disadvantages: Can't update (easily) the service pack/patches for Windows. Can't update or get (easily) patches for your games or drivers. Can't use that great big screen to browse the web (for most of us with a 19'' or bigger) The drivers/patches would be my biggest concern. I am a big gamer, but not an on-line gamer, same as you. I want to play against the computer, and at my own pace with the esc key to pause my game when I want to get a beer, etc...


You're forgetting updating my desktop with 'net updates (from the notebook) to CDRW.

I DO have a 19" CRT - can't beat it for games - but my 14" TFT is easier on the eyes for web-surfing and office apps.

EDIT: There are a LOT of patches and updates you can just forget if you are not worried about security.
 

vetteguy

Diamond Member
Sep 12, 2001
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You could get a small hub and connect the 2 machines, at least you would then have access to the files on either one, and your dedicated gaming machine still wouldn't be connected to the internet. Just a thought. (Hubs can be had for as little as $20 BTW)
 

Trevelyan

Diamond Member
Dec 10, 2000
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Yeah, if you don't want the P4 system to be hooked up to the internet... at least network your P4 system and your laptop... it's just really easy that way...
 

apoppin

Lifer
Mar 9, 2000
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Thanks for your suggestions.

I guess I could even network both computers with a crossover cable and ethernet (I have cards already). But I guess my original idea is good - to have a dedicated gaming machine not directly connected to the Internet. :)