How to have a broadband connection connect automatically when you boot in XP?

[JTH]

I think the thread title says it all. I'm kind of new to networking in XP. I've set up a broadband connection but I'd like it to automatically connect to it when I boot up (so it's on 24/7 effectively). Is there a way to do this?

Thanks in advance!

[Statica]

What broadband connection do you have? If your connection does not require any authentication then it should be on automatically.

[hobey19]

if it does require authentication and you have set it up with the connection manager, you could set it up to automatically connect. this will connect you automatically when you click on the shortcut. then you could make a copy of the shortcut in the startup folder, and it will run it on startup

craig

[JTH]

It requires a username and password (which I've set to "save password" and "connect automatically") so as it is now I just double-click on the shortcut and it connects automatically. I copied and pasted this shortcut into what I think is the startup folder (which one is it, a "search" revealed a lot under "start up") but it didn't seem to make a difference.

Once again, any help would be much appreciated and thanks for all the imput so far.

[Statica]

The shortest answer to looking for the startup folder is one that is listed on your start menu > All Programs
You can directly drag the connection icon to your Start Menu (hint .. keep it clicked when dragging, then take it over All Programs ... wait till all programs opens up, then drag it into the startup folder .. all the while keeping the mouse button pressed).
If you wish to have an automatic connection everytime you log in, then copy the shortcut into C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

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On a related note, if you have a broadband connection it is highly recommended that you are using a hardware router/gateway device. If you were to use a router, the device itself would take care of logging in and authentication, leaving you with an "always on" connection without having to login using Windows.

[glc]

Instead of using your connection manager, replace it with RASPPPOE (www.raspppoe.com) and read this link for making it "always on" - http://raspppoe.com/README2K.HTM#Advanced6

[JTH]

Thanks GLC, I'll check it out.

By the way do you recommend getting a router? I'm a networking novice so I'll tell you my setup. I've two computers both running XP Home and with gigabit ethernet. They're a fair distance apart but I've done some wiring and I've them connected through a Cat 6 crossover cable. I'm only really setting up the network now but what I aim to be able to do is share files/a single printer/broadband connection and maybe play LAN games. Would a router be better for this purpose and what would you need to plug into it? My broadband into the router and then each of your computers into the router is that right? Finally, will that work with Cat 6 cables because I've already gone and done all the wiring and I can't really uproot the cables again!

Thanks, JTH

EDIT: I am using a USB modem by the way.

[glc]

I am using a USB modem by the way.

That shoots down the router idea. You will have to buy a compatible Ethernet modem and a router, or a compatible ADSL modem/router combo.

Yes, a router is the best way to do it. It will be compatible with your crossover CAT6, but you may have to plug the crossover into the uplink port on the router if it doesn't have autosensing ports. The other computer needs a (I assume) short straight CAT5/6 cable. Then again, you have gigabit cards, so the crossover may just work fine plugging it in to any port.

[JTH]

Okay thanks GLC, I'll look into it.