Need help with networking using routers

[pappu]

I have four coputers, with windows 98, windows xp pro and xp home on the. I do NOT have any broadband or DSL and use the vanilla 56 kbps line to connect the net. I have decided to have a network in the house, using one of the computer to log on to the net and then put a router (and not a hub or switch) to share the internet with all of them.

Question - I know if I had used a switch/hub it would have been perfectly fine, but can I use a cable/DSL router to connect them (I baught the router instead of switch because if I ever needed a DSL I dont have to buy an extra router)

Second question - How do I connect them. The instruction presumes that you have a DSL/Cable modem. Are there instructions on the web.

Thanks in advance
-Pappu

[jamesrpm]

you can find some information for what you want to do here

http://www.homenethelp.com/sharing/modem.asp

[gunrunnerjohn]

SMC has routers that have dial backup capability, that's the ticket if you want a wireless router that will work for either broadband or dial-up.

[pappu]

Sorry for not making the questions clear

I have four coputers, with windows 98, windows xp pro and xp home on them.
I do NOT have any broadband or DSL and use the vanilla 56 kbps telephone line to connect the net.
I have decided to have a network in the house, using one of the computer to log on to the net and then put a router (and not a hub or switch) to share the internet with all of them. The router is Netgear cable/wireless router MR814 (for cool $40)

The questions are
1. Can I use the cable/DSL router to connect them. (Or I have to use only hub/switch and not a router). This question is important as I am going to use one of the computer to connect to the net (as I dont have cable/DSL).
The config would be
comp1(with the dial up) --> router -->other computers.

It is same config as
http://www.pcmech.com/byonet/step/5/

The second question is

How do I connect them. The instruction presumes that you have a DSL/Cable modem. Are there instructions on the web.

[DrZaius]

Basically, you're asking if the router can be used as just a 4-port switch? I havn't tried myself so I'm not sure, but I'm inclined to say no.

[glc]

I believe the router can be used as a switch if you turn off DHCP in the router. You will have to use ICS to share out the modem.

[pappu]

yes, DrzAIUS thats my question. If it does not work I can retun it without any questioned asked but I want to know for sure befoe doing that.

Thanks,
Pappu

[TysonTY1]

I agree with GLC. I use my d-link router as a switch. Try ICS, It is fairly simple to set up and works great.