Cable Modem

[AndyM]

We want to wire the house with cable modem service. Would like to hook up at least 4 computers, but it looks like we pay for each PC. I've been told that there's an option to go with a LAN from modem to all other PC's. What do you guys recommend?
AndyM

[glc]

A Linksys DSL/cable router with the built in 4 port 10/100 switch hub. That will only require one IP address from the ISP, and the router handles the rest. Just install a NIC in each computer and run Cat 5 cable from the router to each computer.

Note - when you get the cable service, say *nothing* about a network and just have the installer hook up one of the computers. When he leaves, you set up the router and your network.

[Charliey]

Thats about the best ease of setup/preformance solution. The other things you could do would be use have one win98SE comp with Internet Connection Sharing, or set up a linux router box.

The Win98SE ICS solution is easy to run, but a bit slower, and one comp needs to be on for the internet to work on the rest of them.

The linux box is the fastest way, but its a big job to set up, and you need another computer for it.

[HAL9000]

The Linksys router is a cool piece of hardware. I picked one up in November and it works great with the exception of my Linux machine. Oddly enough, checking with other forums, I'm not the only one with that problem. Gonna keep experimenting though. As for Windows machines... like I said, cool piece of hardware.

[AndyM]

So the cable modem goes directly into the router, and signal is distributed from it to the NIC's? There is no need for a "server" PC to "share" with the rest, requiring it to stay on all the time? That is what I would prefer and I think my question has beeen answered with the router. BTW, if I ever wish to add more PC's, can the router be stacked? Thanks for the responses...

[Omletteboy]

Yup you don't need a pc on constantly acting as the server. The router will do the job plus it's got built in fire wall.

[HAL9000]

The Linksys router is available in a single port, 4 port, and 8 port configuration. With any of the models, you can add hubs to feed up to 253 computers. If you have that many in your house, you've got more problems that I do

[AndyM]

Yah! Would definitely qualify me for "AmIageeK?"! lol.
Thanks for all responses.

[AndyM]

On the waiting list for install of cable modem. And building/rebuilding other pc's in anticipation. Just thought of this one...How the heck does the cable modem hook up to my pc if I don't reveal the plans with the router? Do they install and NIC?

[reboot]

Another slightly cheaper method is to get the Linksys single port router (or the D-Link seems not too bad), then get a home LAN kit of any sort, and plug it into the router.
The router looks after the IP's and firewall, and then you can expand the LAN to any size you like, as a hub is cheaper than a router.

[Omletteboy]

The cable modem connects directly to your nic. Usually they cable company install the nic for you, it's your choice. These days they usually install usb nic since they don't have to open up your computer. There were some people complaining the @home techs screw up their computer when they install the pci nics.

[Chhhhh]

Yesh, a friend of mine had that happen to him. Twice!!