I'm trying to set up a Mac network (with an AirPort Extreme), but don't want to lose my pc network while I'm doing it -- in case I need to use a help desk (or Yahoo Answers) while setting up the network. Thanks.
2007-05-13 02:22:57 · 4 answers · asked by Monkeydad 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Computer Networking
No, you can't just put a splitter on it. You'd need two modems and two accounts. Most cable companies don't allow that for one residence.
When you do on-line banking, you're connecting with SSL encryption. Even over wireless, your session would be protected.
If you don't somehow protect your wireless (WPA preferred), you're not just risking someone snooping your information, you're risking them using your connection to upload or download illegal stuff.
The ideal solution is to create a virtual LAN (VLAN) to "fence off" the wireless and separate it from your local network. Even then, WPA and a firewall on the PC are prudent. Typical consumer gear does not have this feature. You're looking at a SOHO grade device or third-party firmware for VLANs.
2007-05-13 02:32:35 · answer #1 · answered by rssays 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to use a router to divide the incoming connection, without it packets wont know where to go.
A switch or splitter will just connect everything together and you have a mess in this situation where a router will --well route.
In your case you may end up with at least two routers. One to divide the cable and make network one and one for your AirPort Extreme system.
2007-05-13 02:31:34 · answer #2 · answered by Tracy L 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Your cable company will only give you one IP address, so you won't be able to split it at the cable modem level. I know nothing about Macs or their networks, but can you join PCs to a Mac network or a Mac to a PC network?
Alternatively, can you connect a router to the inside of your cable modem (to get your one external) IP address, then connect your Airport to it and your PC wireless router to it? If so, you should be able to set up two internal networks. For example, make your Airport network 10.0.0.0 and your PC network 192.168.0.0.
The first solution of one network sounds easiest to me if it's possible.
2007-05-13 02:38:32 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
You don't need an airport base with a mac, you can just use your current PC network, that is what I am doing right now.
2007-05-13 02:45:43 · answer #4 · answered by bramo126 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋