Internet Conn. Share, XP &98

[Briab Guy]

Hi,
I had ICS hooked up when I had a dial up. I think I did it, just to do it. I didn't need it for anything in particular.
I now have cable and am thinking about doing it again.
What I dont remember is how it works when finished.
Can I use both PC's at the same time, on the web, at different web sites? Or does the client have to view what the host has up on the screen?
I will be using W98 2nd ed and XP.
Thanks for any help

[Briab Guy]

Boy, I should have read more before I posted. If I understand the help file in XP:
1.
You should not use this feature in a network with other domain controllers, DNS servers, gateways, DHCP servers, or systems configured for static IP.
2.
When you enable Internet Connection Sharing, the network adapter connected to the home or small office network is given a new static IP address configuration. Existing TCP/IP connections on the Internet Connection Sharing computer are lost and need to be reestablished. For example, if Internet Explorer is connecting to a Web site when Internet Connection Sharing is enabled, refresh the browser to reestablish the connection.

I am using comcast for my cable connection. Isn't the IP static?
And if so, how do I work around this? Or am I misunderstanding it?
Thanks again for any help.

[morriswindgate]

First set up the connection to the internet using the XP machine with two NIC cards installed and connect the 98 machine to this one. Then run the Make New Home Network" on the xp machine and at the end of the Wizard make the floppy disk that it tells you to create. THen run this floppy on the 98 computer.
However with the price of routers these days, unless you need to share files it is better to get a router for sharing the connection. And for around 70 bucks you can even get a router that has a built in print server that will allow all the computers to use the same printer.

[Briab Guy]

Thanks for the response. I am going to have to learn more about routers.
The reason I started doing this again was that a friend needs to do the same at home. But he asked me if he could use both PC's at the same time, and view different web pages. In other words, be looking at the local sports scores on the XP box while checking out TV guide on the 98 box.(simultaneously)? I couldn't remember to be honest.
I am betting if done as you say with a router, you could.
But what if you only use a home network kit, with ICS?
Thanks again for taking your time to answer, I appreciate it.

[Confused]

While it can be done with ICS, the best method by far is with a router. Each PC operates and connects independently. With ICS the connected PC has to be on for the client PC to connect to the network. Plus router provides a hardware firewall.
Chas