View Full Version : Looking for a good router
Newbuilder
04-22-2003, 07:22 PM
I am looking to connect two of my pc's to my exsisting broadband connection. The exsisting pc (win98) is rdy to go, but have not yet put together the new computer(win xp pro). It will have an Asus P4G8X mobo.
(ASUS MOBO) (http://www.asus.com/prog/spec.asp?m=P4G8X%20Deluxe&langs=01)
I had 2 questions. One is whether or not I will need any other card in order to connect, which I don't think I will, and the other is the real reason that I wrote this post:
I am looking for suggestions for a decent router to hook both of these computers to the exsisting internet connection. I was browsing some, but I am not really sure on what I am looking for. Bear in mind all I want it to do is share the connection. I do not have any need for anything more at this time.
Thanks,
Jeff
ktkendall
04-22-2003, 09:05 PM
LAN connection is all U need and Linksys routers are known good reputation and easy setup.. I have the BESFR41, which has the built in 4 port switch and have no problems with it in 2 years...
reboot
04-22-2003, 09:14 PM
Even if you don't feel the need for filesharing, or LAN gaming, a router is definitely the easiest, and most secure way to go.
The Linksys mentioned by ktkendall is one of the best, with stateful packet inspection, both incoming and outgoing filters, the list goes on.
Set it up, plug in both computers, and turn it on, then fire up the computers, open a browser, and set the settings. Usually default are the simplest.
There's only one area where you may have to change things, and that is the "Clone MAC".
If your ISP determines your IP address by the unique MAC number of your NIC, then you may not get online until you Clone MAC, that is, get the MAC address of your NIC, and tell the router to use that MAC address, then you're online in seconds.
If you're on DSL, the setup is slightly more complicated, but it's well spelled out in the manual, and Linksys toll free tech support is excellent.
If you DO later decide to add a 3rd, or 4th computer, or an X-Box, or PS2, just plug it into the router.
It's already set up for filesharing as well, with almost nothing to do to play LAN games.
brassman
04-22-2003, 10:52 PM
Two more good routers are the D-Link DI-604, and the SMC Barricade. They both have SPI(Stateful Packet inspection) firewall built in.
morriswindgate
04-22-2003, 11:13 PM
Also SMC has a router with a built-in print server that is reasonable priced, and this will allow both computers to easily share a printer.
Preston
04-23-2003, 12:37 AM
I recently bought the Netgear FM114P. It's a Router, Firewall (with SPI), Print Server, and wireless access point. It was very easy to setup, and I have been really happy with it.
reboot
04-23-2003, 10:38 AM
I'll second the SMC Barricade. I've had one for over a year, and not even the slightest hint of trouble.
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