My first time networking computers...

[ddeder]

I am getting ready to network three computers together in my home. I have purchased 3 Realtek NICs and am about to purchase a hub. I found this one on pricewatch:

CIS SH05M 10/100 MBPS ETHERNET LAN SWITCH HUB 5PORT RJ-45, AUTO-SENSING FULL AND HALF DUPLEX
IN RETAIL BOX 10/100 MBPS CAN BE 1 UPLINKport AND SWITCH 4PORT, AUTO-DETECTION, RETAIL BOX.

This is the cheapest 10/100 MBPS hub that I could find. Can someone tell me if this hub will be adequate for my home office? Should I spend more? Can I spend less?

I intend to share a dialup internet connection using Windows ICS. Will this be possible even though two of the computers are running Windows ME and the third is running Windows 98 SE?

Thanks.

 

[IsOs]

Sounds adequate but I have no experience with this switch. I'm using 8 port switch. I did not find a price in your post, but I've seen a 5 port switch about $50

 

[CYLINDERMAN]

Recieved this switch a few days ago from MEILINK was $54.39 + shipping and has $35.00 MIR. I have it hooked up to four W98SE computers using ICS with dialup, works well. Getting ready to add one with ME, I have been told it should be no problem.

 

[ddeder]

Thx for the replies.

Cylinderman,

At the risk of sounding stupid, does this switch require special software to be installed on the computers? Is it considered auto-sensing? Does is require any special configuration that a hub would not?

Also, did you receive the rebate form with the switch or did you have to find it on the internet?

Thanks again.

 

[CYLINDERMAN]

ddeder

No special software install just like hub, auto-sensing. The rebate form was sent to me along with my order.The rebate goes through MEI/Micro Center. Although this was my first experience with them I am pleased with their service, quick delivery. Shipping was $8.45 for this switch and a PCMCIA card to me.

If you decide to get this and need the rebte form PM me and I can email the form.

Hope this helps.

 

[JackMDS]

>>>Recieved this switch a few days ago from MEILINK was $54.39 + shipping and has $35.00 MIR. I have it hooked up to four W98SE computers using ICS with dialup, works well. Getting ready to add one with ME, I have been told it should be no problem<<<

Do I miss something (beside the rebate)?

$54 for a Switch, using ICS with 4 computers, instead of paying few $$$ and getting a Router.

 

[ddeder]

Thanks Cylinderman. Just ordered it.

Jack,

With the $35 rebate it comes to $28 including shipping. This sounds like a pretty good deal for an 8 port switch. Since he only has a dialup connection, as I do, what would be the benefit of getting a router instead?