Basic Router Setup Question

[yellowsnow]

Right now I only have one computer at my house, but soon figure to have one or two more. I have a cable connection, and I know I would need a router to connect all the computers to the network. Several questions I have -

I assume that like other computer parts routers come in varying degrees of quality. Which routers are the best? What features do I need?

How many computers can be connected through one router?

From what I've read, I'm fairly sure that each computer needs its own Ethernet card. Is this correct?

Will having this many computers using the router and cable connection slow it down?

Also, cost. How much (roughly) does it cost for a good router and whatever cables need to be used to connect them?

I'm sorry if these questions have been asked before. If so, just link me. Thanks in advance.

[bailey]

most any router you get will (should ) work fine.
I use the linksys brand

you will want one with a built in switch

if your cable modem uses a eathernet cinnector to your computer now, then just connect it to the wan port of the router.

you can also go with wireless then you won't need to run a cat-5 cable to each computer.

yes each computer you add to the network must have a networking card to match weather you go wired or wireless.

cost is not much depending on where you buy it at
mine cost about 80 dollars.

do the reasearch before you buy anything, make sure all will do what you want the way you want.