what is the best way to get internet for multiple computers?

Question

Im planning on running 3 laptops and 1 desktop. Please let me know ASAP. thanks

Answer 1

Ok, the easiest and safest yet economical way to setup internet for 4 computers is to purchase an inexpensive wireless broadband router with some built-in firewall capabilities such as those offered by linksys or netgear like the linksys WRT54G. I'm assuming you've already ordered your DSL or Cable internet which will plug into the new router.
You will want your computers configured for DHCP for the simplest setup since they will automatically assigned an IP address after being connected to the router. Most computers today come with wireless preinstalled but you may need to purchase a comparable wireless card if you do not have the built in ones - it's only important that you match up the type with your router for best performance i.e. 802.11G router with 802.11G card for the PC or laptop (most systems come with combo 802.11a/b/g cards or similar so and 802.11G router is always a safe purchase. Most of the broadband wireless routers also come with at least 4 wired ports so that you can still connect your wired devices through the same device, just be careful about where you place the device in relation to your cable outlets(CABLE)/phone outlets(DSL) and your wired devices to avoid unsightly wiring scenarios. You will also want to make sure that you change the default password on the router and enable security for your wireless devices (minimum of WPA with AES recommended) which is typically done through the web interface on your router and in your wireless client software. I recommend downloading the guide for your router and network card i.e. http://linksys.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/linksys.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=3686&lid=3718538305B06 for detailed instructions. The setup is generally very simple provided you review the instructions or you have a little background in computers.

Answer 2

a router
Wireless routers are often on sale at big box stores to get people in the door
all brands are fine
Linksys is premium , dlink is the other main brand
All are ok and work with each others cards
Wireless is convenient but can never be as fast and trouble free as cable - but cable costs and you have to install
If the laptops already have wireless adapters built in- then you are set, if not you will have to buy wireless network adapters
pcmcia or usb for the laptops

the most important thing with wireless is to change the channel from the default channel 6
The wireless router will generally have 4 plug in ports as well as wireless so you can either use a cable or wireless
Don't bother with the expensive new n stuff unless you have vista - nothing else will install
Most likely you will end up with run of the mill g wireless
Goes 300 feet inside and 1000 feet outside
Even an old b card is geneally faster than any broadband internet speed. Overkill for internet browsing

A very useful home networking utility is network magic

http://www.networkmagic.com

Answer 3

First, set up a network for the four machines using an Ethernet hub. Next, connect a router to that hub. If any of your machines are running WiFi cards, you may want that to be a Wireless router with Ethernet ports. Connect the wireless router to your DSL or Cable line, and configure the router to provide the account name/password info for your ISP account. Surf like a fool! ;-)

Answer 4

The best way to share internet between multiple computers is to purchase a router, or a wireless router if you dont want the computers close together or running long cables through the house.

Answer 5

I would create a wireless network. A wireless network depending on the one you get, needs at least one computer connected to it, so this would be your desktop. Then it will be easy for your laptops to connect to it. Try something like Linksys, or Airport Extreme.

Answer 6

With laptops you'll probably want a strong Wifi capability. Linksys makes outstanding routers which provide both Ethernet and wifi connections.

Answer 7

Ethernet Hub
theres other ways depends on what you need,can afford,and want out of your network. check out this link.
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/home-network.htm

Answer 8

wireless the laptops can go wireless