new to this needs help

[orisons]

ok I have a laptop with a Laplink 650d network card and a pc with a us robotics network card, I also have a cable modem (which connects to my desktop) I would like to network these two together and still have access to internet via cable modem, I dont have any idea how to do this but I think I need a cable modem router, after that I know nothing, any help would be much appriciated, also any help in finding a very cheap router/cables'n'stuff(i live in uk)would also be much appriciated

Thankyou

 

[wolluf]

You don't say what operating systems - but assuming desktop running 98SE or later (has Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) software built in), you just need a CAT5 crossover cable to connect the 2 machines (assuming NICs are compatible speeds - most are dual speed 10/100) and another NIC for the desktop, unless the cable modem is a USB connection. A number of good sites with instructions -

http://www.wown.com,

http://www.practicallynetworked.com

are a couple on how to set it up. If you intend expanding the network, you might be better off buying a router now (you'll then need a CAT5 straight through cable to connect each machine to the router - the cable connection will connect to the router - make sure you get router which will take your cable connection - ethernet or USB). Dabs.com is a good site for networking (& other) components in uk (I also use

http://prices.cclcomputers.co.uk/pricelists/retailframe.htm,

as they're local to me - but have more limited stock).

 

[jimmyz66]

You are correct here is a link

http://www.dlink.com/

that will show you the product you will need, I recommend the DI-704p which will give you four connections as well as a firewall for a whapping $69.00 Dollars on their website but if you are in a hurry check your local PC store or a BestBuy they usually carry this type of equipment and you wont have to pay for shipping. Remember this is not a wireless product and if you plan on using them in a different room you are going to have to run cable or look into a wireless connection which will be a little more expensive, which is also provided at the above website.....Good Luck