How to add a second computer (in-house network) to your existing DSL on-line primary computer?

Question

How to even ask the question!?! I have one computer on-line via DSL ISP hook-up. How do I add a second computer and make use of the same DSL service line, in-house, so my friend can access the internet and also have his own computer to play on? I am new to this, so please make your answer as clear and easy to understand as possible. Thanks very much for your help, in advance! - G. in South Portland, Maine, U.S.A. (P.S.: Would like to use two computers, not a second-user in one computer thing.)

Answer 1

A router isn't essential, though its certainly what I'd recommend.

The simplest (and cheapest) way to connect them is by a cross-over ethernet cable, which means that both PCs must have a network interface, either built in to the motherboard or through an add-on card. Of course this approach is only viable if you're able to route the cable through the house OK, you didnt say if the PCs would be in the same room.

Once you have this connection made use the 'network set up wizard' in Windows to configure your PC with ICS (Internet Connection Sharing) --- this will also allow you to create a floppy disc with which you can set up the other PC with the correct settings.

Using a router is very similar, though you'd need 2 'straight through ethernet cables' to connect each PC to the router. Your internet connection is then handled by the router which gives the security benefit of not exposing either machine to the internet, traffic is handled by the router on behalf of the PCs. Once again you'd need to be able to run the cables OK.

If running cables around isnt an option, you have the option of using a wireless router, at least for the connection from the second PC--one of them will have to be connected by ethernet cable to successfully set it up.
Bear in mind a wireless network isn't as secure as a wired one, if you do use this method please follow the advice at sites such as http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,844020,00.asp and http://www.netgear.co.uk/securing_wireless_network.php ... if you do a google/yahoo search for 'securing a wireless network' you'll find lots of good sites..... and don't forget about popping into http://www.microsoft.com and checking put their security advice.

If all that seems complicated, dont worry...its really very simple, particularly with the configuration being 'wizard' driven.

Answer 2

You need a thing called a "router" - it's 20 to 50 bucks at any store. What you're doing is setting up a "network". The guy in the store will explain it - it's super-easy - Windows pretty much does it for you. Folow the network wizard.

It can be wireless - if your friend is using a laptop - or wired, if he wants to plug a wire in.

Basically, your computer, computer number 1, plugs into the router with a network cable; the router then plugs into your DSL modem. The router, then, accommodates any additional computers you want to hook up.

Figure spending less than $100 including cables, etc. and, if you;re a comlete novice, up to two hours.

Answer 3

You will have to get a router. If you want wireless access on one of the computers, you'll have to get a wireless router. You will plug the internet into the router, then plug your computer's internet cable into the router. You can hook up several computers to the internet with one router. When you find the router that you need, there will probably be a number you can call for technical support when you hook it up.

Answer 4

Pickup a cheap router from your computer store

Answer 5

go to an electronics store and get a wireless router. my brother and i have used this method for a couple of years

Answer 6

i would suggest a wireless or eathernet card and router . that should allow net access from a secondary computer.

Answer 7

I think there's a cord that you can plug into your new computer that you can connect to your old computer. It is a white cord that isn't too big.
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