Sharing dsl with 2-3 pc's El Cheapo

[Dissolved]

Whats the Easiest way, and the Cheapest way to let 2 pcs connect to the internet? i dont mind setting it up, but i liek simple things. and im trying to buya few extra pc's like p2 400's for folding, and i want them to be able to dl new wu's. i only have like 150 bux, and the p2 systems will be alot esp to ship :(. So is there a way to do this EL Cheapo? Cuz i dont really wanna waste 100 bux on a dsl router.

[Jon]

Without actually buying a router you'll have to make one. Two NICs in one PC going out to a hub or switch for the others to connect to.

There is software that allows use for only one NIC but I don't think it works all to well and cheap NICs can be had for around $5.

[Dissolved]

Yea i was thinking about the dual nice deal. i have a dsl modem and a few nics. What id really like is a Dsl modem with a build in Router. Ive heard of them but havent seen one.. Only prob is if i got more pcs then that modem could handle i could be screwed.
but if i did deside to get a router what kind would i need?
i kinda like dlinks stuff, wireless would be great, but too much :(
Thanks

[trey_w]

if you get the modem with the router in it, you simply jsut attach a switch into it to give you ports

[Jon]

D-Link is fine, as are most other SOHO routers. Only one I've seen repeated complaints about is the Linksys. I've got a 4-port NetGear myself going out to another 8-port switch and it works fine. Plenty of options and has never failed.

There are plenty of cheap generic ones to choose from, but you get what you pay for. That's not to say they will fail, but usually aren't very flexible in options. Simple internet connectivity is about all they offer and it would be fine for just a folding farm.

[Dissolved]

Which Dlink one would be good? 8port ones are under 100 bux, but i dunno what model id want/need. any opions?

[Jon]

I'd just grab a 4-port with another 5-port switch. Same functionality and you actually save a few bucks that way.

ComReady.com (www.comready.com) is about the best place for networking equipment I've found. I order from them all the time. Any of the routers they carry will do you fine.

[Dissolved]

So id need a router and a switch? it hought they made them in one deal?

[Jon]

They do. What I'm suggesting is just actually cheaper while providing the same amount of ports. Buying an 8-port router is more expensive than buying a 4-port router and a 5-port switch, yet they will provide the exact same thing.

I actually prefer having an extra switch. It can cut down on the number of ethernet cables running all over if you ever have to set up PCs in alternate locations of your room or house. Instead of running 2, 3, 4, etc. lines across a room, you run one to the switch and then have short cables to the PC from that switch.

[Dissolved]

Yea, and something even more lame, is that basic wireless is the same + the wireless cards. so i may as well go wireless for the extra lil money. So i think ill just see what pc stuff i can get. The p2 400 deal failed. as the guys wants me to pay 200+ for all the parts or he wont sell. So only figures. im kinda blown as i can sell anything, and i can get any deals.
Icrontic wants me to fold for them if i buy any parts from there members now. so im phucked.