Basic networking question

[shaner66]

I have two XP machines, both have NIC's and I already have the cables needed.

I want to transfer files between the two, as well as share my broadband connection.

If I go out and purchase a cheap hub, will I be able to achieve both of the above?

And if not, at the very least, will a cheap hub allow me to transfer personal files from one PC to another?

And yeah, I already know about crossover cables, I have one, but I'm looking at other possibilities right now.

I'm reading a lot on networks and I think I got the basics understood, I just want to verify everything, because the second computer will be delivered in a couple days so I want to know basically what I'm doing ahead of time. Thanks!

 

[diogenes10]

an inexpensive router will allow you to achieve your objectives.

 

[shaner66]

So purchase a cheap router instead of a hub?

That's it, two cables, two NIC's, and a router?

Beautiful, thanks a lot!

 

[shaner66]

Before anyone else answers.

Router allows you to share everything (internet connection, files, printer, etc.), a hub allows people to share files, settings, etc. but not the internet connection?

Correct me if I'm wrong, this should be my last question regarding this topic.

 

[ANFPS26]

I would use a router instead of a hub. It also gives you a hardware firewall. They cost about the same as a hub.

Jim

 

[cdogg]

"[blue]a hub allows people to share files, settings, etc. but not the internet connection[/blue]"

Actually, you can share a connection with a hub if you really wanted to. However, you would have to set up one PC with 2 NIC cards and basically act as a proxy server. Some time and configuration is needed, but it is possible.

I agree with the above. Get a router to save time and add security (NAT - Network Address Translation). Decent routers with 4 ports will run you around $40-50 depending where you shop. I personally like the Linksys BEFSR41 model.


~cdogg
[tab]"The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources"
[tab][tab]- A. Einstein

 

[bcastner]

Hub runs at 10 mbs Half-Duplex, with CSMA in a CSMA collision zone. Router runs at 10 or 100 Full or Half Duplex, with no collision zone.

I have been there and done that with hubs. Never again.

 

[CitrixEngineer]

Quote "Hub runs at 10 mbs Half-Duplex, with CSMA in a CSMA collision zone" /Quote

Doesn't that depend on the hub? Both the hubs on my home network not only do 10/100Mbs full duplex, but act as basic unmanaged switches, so the traffic is not broadcast within the collision domain. You can also get Gbit models.

Basically I'm not sure what your meaning is - I'm sure you know your stuff.

Not all Broadband Routers do 100Mb/sec on the LAN either (remember there are many types of router - if it's not a Broadband/DSL router, it won't do DSL).

NAT is an excellent security measure, but get a router that also has a port-filtering firewall built-in. You can't have too many layers of protection when it comes to opening up your computer to the entire world!

Good Luck!