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DSL Modem/Router or SWITCH

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gtgren

MIS
Jan 31, 2003
116
US
I have a Bellsouth DSl modem at home connected to a hub. I am going to buy a switch to increase the bandwith for the Internet connections to the PC's. Should I buy a regular switch or Cable/DSL Router with 10/100 Switch or maybe there is some other option. Help! Please explain why one is better that the other.
 
Your option is the best but you won't see in increase between your PCs and the Internet because your hub is faster then your ADSL/Cable Modem. It will, however, increase the communication between your PC's alot. It is still your best bet to get the router just for the firewall option.

I now recommend those routers to ANYONE who has Cable or ADSL .



"In space, nobody can hear you click..."
 
A router does act as a "hardware firewall" hiding the IP addresses of each PC connected to it. This provides you protection from the outside.

However, for added security, it is also a good idea to run a "software firewall" like Norton Firewall or Zonealarm to protect you from malicious programs/trojans that might be trying to use the internet without your permission. All sorts of information can be stolen this way.

So if you have to choose between a basic switch and a router, go with the router. They're not that much more expensive anymore. However, only do it for the security. Like ReddLefty said, it won't help your internet connection unless you're talking about 10 or more PC's. It will, however, make an immediate difference in sharing files between PC's on your home network.


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