Home network advice needed.

[rbV5]

I want to set up a wired(I'm running cable coax, so I might as well run network cable while I'm at it) network to share my Verizon DSL, printer and play LAN games head to head and perhaps even take on a DC project again. Currently I'm just sharing the connection between a couple PC's using the 2 onboard NIC's on my Main PC. What components do I need? Would a Switch like this work, or do I need a router? Any help appreciated, and please forgive my Network nOOb-iness

I have 5 PC's (minimum), 1 printer and Verizon DSL with a static IP...Thanks in advance

 

[LouPoir]

Simple - you need a router - nice if you can get one with a printer port that way all the PC's can share it. Otherwise, the PC with the sharing printer will have to be on to be used by others.

Linksys, DLink, Netgear -


Lou

 

[JackMDS]

Link to: AnandTech - FAQ. Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing

Link to: AnandTech - FAQ. Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?

Ignore the prices in the links above. The same or similar hardware can be found for 60%-90% less.

Link to: DSL PPPOE and Cable/DSL Routers.

 

[TheDebater]

I would suggest a router because ideally you should have your internet running into the router so you never have to have a computer on to feed internet to the switch and then to the other computers. Wired 10/100 routers are relatively cheap and easy to setup. think about firewall features when you pick one up. good luck. oh, and of course some routers have print server cabilities although it has been my very limited personal experience that it is often easier and cheaper to hook the printer up to a computer and share it rather than to the router

 

[rbV5]

Thanks for the help. I did see some deals on 8 port routers. JackMDS, thanks for pointing out the FAQ, which should have been my starting point of course