DIY advice please...

[mohammedm]

I have a basic computer background and have managed to set up a small network at my office for 5 pcs (2 desktops and 3 laptops with wireless capability) using a 8 port switch/hub (can't remember) and Windows Xp networking.

I am planning to install ADSL in the office and will like all pcs to be able to access the internet (email and web browsing). I have two options:
1. ADSL modem connected to one pc and then use internet connection sharing for the other pcs.
2. ADSL router to replace the switch/hub so that bandwidth is shared and each pc connects directly to the router and not the hub/switch anymore.

I am absolutely clueless when it comes to routers and what I will need for the above setup. Any comments and suggestions with be much appreciated.

 

[Nickste]

Definately go for no. 2, in my opinion. The router will take care of IP addresses (if it has DHCP), internet access, etc. A lot easier.

Cheers, Nick

 

[photonman]

yep option 2 is a much better option.wifi router would do the job!

 

[Franna]

Leave everything as is, connect the ADSL modem/router to a port on the hub/switch and configure the ADSL router DHCP server with Default Gateway and DNS addresses.

 

[Goobie]

Agree, go with the router but keep the switch, I would go:

ADSL modem --> Router with 4 ports w/ wireless --> 8 port switch

This way you can connect 13+ computers (3 from router + 7 from switch + the 3 wireless ones).

EDIT: damn Franna, you type faster than I do

 

[nGAGEd55]

ADSL modem --> Router with 4 ports w/ wireless --> 8 port switch

Or just get a Router with a built in ADSL modem, and wi-fi, and connect that to the switch if u need the extra ports.

 

[mas]

Go for option 2, much easier in my opinion!

 

[thisgeek]

Yeesh no!

Get yourself a copy of IPCop, install it on a spare machine with 2 nics, and off you go.

1st nic is plugged into your network switch/hub and the 2nd nic is plugged into the ADSL modem / router ethernet port. (Don't get a USB modem!)

I wouldn't recommend using either of your options.

If you need help with setting up IPCop, feel free to PM me.

 

[Silent_Bob]

go for option 2. windows internet sharing can be very dodgy and sometimes chooses when it wants to work

 

[Nickste]

If you want a lot more control, go for thisgeek's option.

 

[mohammedm]

Thank you

Guys

You have been a great help. Many thanks for the multiple speedy responses.

Mohammed

 

[regardtv]

No matter which option you choose, do the rest of the internet a favour and make sure all those pc's are at the very least fully patched and running a recent anti-virus ... especially if you're not planning on some sort of firewalling...

Also, I REALLY hope that the wifi you're running is at least WEP128 ... frightening how much free internet is out there because ppl don't secure their wireless networks ..

Yes, I realise that this post was rather OT for what was asked ... just felt like getting my post count back up .. Rodent's thrashing me these days ;-)