Getting cable, part 2 [Archive]

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lmz

10-31-2003, 11:01 AM

I'm sure this is a dumb question, but I'll ask anyway... How hard is it to configure a PC for cable Internet access? Do I just connect the cable modem and the NIC, load the cable modem drivers, and it configures itself?

bonzai

10-31-2003, 11:06 AM

Everything is pretty much plug and play. You don't even need to install cable modem drivers. Try it and come back if u got problems.

gunrunnerjohn

10-31-2003, 04:10 PM

FWIW, I'd STRONGLY consider installing a firewall BEFORE you connect to the cable modem. If you're planning on sharing the connection, get an Ethernet equipped modem and a broadband router.

claudenj

11-01-2003, 08:53 AM

There are very nice USB2 Cable modems out there now, I am running a Motorola SB4200, with Intel 100 Management plus ethernet adapter. I tried the USB2 option instead, but prefere the ethernet controller because it has built in encryption option which saves my motherboard from having to do that. ALSO, very important. I use a Physical router with firewall option, AND ZoneAlarm PRO firewall. I stop over 8 hackers a day... Was shocked one morning right after getting cable to see my mouse pointer moving all over my screen opening things up all by itself. A hacker was into me good before i had a firewall. I ran a systems check to detect hardware and found a 56K modem listed in my hardware after 3 days of this guy in my system. Well to get him out.. I had an old FLASH Bios disk to upgrade a 14K modem to a 28K modem, and I ran that from my root directory flashing HIS chip for his 56K dial up.. I got rid of him, and sure he had to buy a new modem after that, but learned a valuable lesson that firewalls are Manditory if your online.. cable or no cable.

gunrunnerjohn

11-01-2003, 10:50 AM

IMO, USB is a VERY BAD option! You end up using something like ICS to share the connection, since USB broadband routers are as scarce as hen's teeth.

SARGE

11-01-2003, 11:56 PM

With all due respect, USB stinks with any broadband.

azscary

11-02-2003, 01:04 AM

Most ISP's wont even support a USB connection on broadband. IT SUCKS and you will need drivers for the USB which are lame and prone to crapping out.

In a word, forget all about USB.