Cisco Catalyst 1924 / 2501 Router Issues

[DL36]

Hello,
I'm not sure if this is the correct place to put a thread such as this, but I figured that you guys would have an answer for me:
I am trying to set up a small network using a Cisco Catalyst 1924 Switch.  I also have (2) Cisco 2501s that can be implemented into this network.
I am not proficient in networking at all, I have the basic knowledge to program the units, but I'm even having problems with the physical setup.
I'm trying to get the computers on the switch to talk to each other, and more importantly, share the connection to the internet.  I'm not sure where I should hook in the ethernet cable that provides the internet connection?
Also, would it be best to use a router in this scenario?  Where should I implement it?  Where should the internet connection be placed in this scenario?
Any help that can be provided would be very appreciated.
Thank you.

 

[dibbkd]

I'm assuming (and could be wrong) that you have just a few (less than 6 or so) computers and want them to share your DSL or Cable-modem Internet connection.

If this is the case, I'd recommend something simple like getting a D-Link or NetGear Cable/DSL Router and just plugging them into that.

What is it exactly you're trying to do, and where did you get the Cisco equipment from? I'm asking because you have them, but not sure what to do with them.

 

[DL36]

I actually have over a dozen systems that I'd like to be on this network.

I got this Cisco equipment over a year ago, hoping to use it to study for the CCNA, and have been too busy to get any real time practice on them. I've read through a few CCNA books, etc. but they do not detail how to hook up the units.

Therefore, if you could provide me with the basics of how to get them up, not only would I get my network functioning, but I'd get some hands on experience with switches and routers.

Thanks, I appreciate your help.

 

[dibbkd]

OK, I'm not sure what all you've done so far, but the first step is configuring your PC's IP address. You can use a private address range of 192.168.x.x and subnet mask and then you should be able to ping each PC, making them "talk".

Once the PC's are configured, you don't have to actually "do" anything to the switch to make the PC's communicate with each other.

I'm assuming you already have the CAT5 wiring and patch panel in place. If not, that would be the 1st step.

How are you connected to the Internet? T1, Cable, DSL, other?

 

[DL36]

dibbkd,
Alright, thank you for your help. I really appreciate it. I have the naming / ip scheme ready for the computers. I do have CAT5e wiring and a patch panel set up.

Right now, I am connected to the internet through "commercial class" DSL, but I am having a 1.1mbs SDSL connection installed this month. But for now, I'd like to have this configured to the current DSL.

Thanks again for your help.

 

[dibbkd]

I'll have to double check next week, but I don't believe you can connect your 2501 to a DSL Internet connection. I think the 2501 can only connect to a T1/E1 or ISDN.

 

[DL36]

Thanks again for your help.

What port would I connect the T1 to if I had one? It might be worth an attempt since my DSL comes in on a CAT5 / RJ45 line.

Where would I put the switch, router, etc.?

Thanks again

 

[DL36]

Alright, I have decided to try and simplify the situation, and then learn on my own from there.

What do I need to do to just use the switch, have my computers connected to it, and allow them to access the internet?

I'm not even sure how to configure the switch, although I thought I knew how.

I have an ethernet transceiver connected to the AUI port, and I believe the DSL can be connected into it. I also have crossover cables to connect the computers to the switch.

I can assign the computers ips, etc. but how should I configure the ports in switch console? I have the AUI port set as the uplink, but other than this, I'm stuck.

Thanks for your help.