New to networking question

[Joyride]

Whats the easiest and most cost effective solution to networking 2 computers with either a cable or DSL connection?

Both computers have a NIC already? (Should they be same brand as each other)?

Both have Win2k

 

[yudsay]

get the Netgear RT314 router and it sould not matter about the brand of nic card. the router is listed on the message borad about 110.00 bucks.

 

[Joyride]

I was just looking at that one.

So I would assume you hook it up from the wall to the modem to the router and then to computers?

 

[Bunch]

Definately purchase a DSL/Cable router, I have had good luck with the Linksys model BEFSR41 and it's under $100. It has four ports so both PCs can hook right into the router without the need for a seperate hub. The router works as a DHCP server so you don't need to come up with your own IP addresses, the setup info shows you what to do.
The NICs can be any brand it, they don't have to be the same. Just make sure that they can work with 100BT. I personally like Intel Pro 100 NICs, just make sure that they are PCI and not CNR slot cards (CNR is a newer slot for NICs).
And don't forget to pick up three CAT5e cables too!

 

[learningstill]

Here are some article reviews on broadband routers. Hope you will get a better idea after reading these reviews.

SMC 7004BR
SMC Wireless Broadband Router
Multitech RouterFinder RF500S Broadband Router
Nexland ISB SOHO Cable/DSL Router
Linksys BEFSR41
SOHOWare Broadguard Broadband Router
Linksys Wireless AP + Cable/DSL Router
Allied Telesyn AT-AR220E Cable/DSL Router
Xsense MIH-130A Cable/DSL Router
Netgear FR314 Cable/DSL Firewall Router
U.S. Robotics Cable/DSL Router
Netgear RT314 DSL/Cable Router
Nexland ISB Pro 400 DSL Router

Good luck !

 

[JackMDS]

The most Cost effective solution is to educate yourself about these issues.

The Basic Options to Share Internet Connection (Internet Sharing 101).

Hubs, routers, switches, DSL, LANs, WANs...?

If you will end up looking for a Router:

There are no significant differences between most of the Entry level Cable/DSL Routers.

Conventional Wisdom claims: The Routing Trinity.

1. Netgear RT314
2. Barricade 7004ABR
3. Linksys BEFSR41

Some Routers have an additional Printer Server, and DialUp Modem input for backup.

I would choose the one that has the features that fit the way you use the
Internet (and may be it is on sale).

Table comparing these Routers (you don?t have to be a member to read these reviews)

Comparing Cable/DSL Routers.

Link of Courtesy of: TallGeese

 

[philippis]

My solution

1. cat5 crossover cable --- $5
Connet two computer with this cable. Now, you have a LAN.

2. 10/100Mbps NIC --- $10
Put it on one of those two computers and connet this interface to you DSL gateway.

3. Linux --- $0
Install it on the computer with two NICs. Go to www.linuxdoc.org and find "IP-masquerade-HOWTO". Setup your Linux box as a NAT.

Total: $15

If you do not like Linux, just install windows on the computer with two NIC's. Go to download.com download "proxy+". The total is still $15.