2 Computer Cable connection sharing

[Leo Blume]

I have two computers, both with nic cards and 1 has cable and I read on the win98 forum that to connect two computers to share printer and cable connection I don't need a router just using ICS. Is this correct? Do I put two nic cards in one computer, one to run a cable to the other computer and one for the cable modem? What';s a crossover cable? Coaxial comes into the cable modem from there to my nic card in the computer. I'm assuming a crossover is a cable with three male ends, one into the modem and two commimg off to go into the two computers. Is this correct? What's the easiest way to accomplish all of this?

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[thehigg]

A crossover cable is needed from computer nic to computer nic. It is a regular looking cat 5 cable(usually orange) the conductors on (1) end have been "crossed over". While on paper using 2 nic in (1) computer and (1) nic in the other connected to the cable modem sounds good, it has it's problems.

I recommend a switch or hub. A $60 - $70 hub/switch saves a load of potential problems.

Run a crossover cable from the back of your cable modem to one of the ports on the hub/switch. Run regular cat 5 wires to each machine.

Good luck,

Tim

thehigg@home.com

[Leo Blume]

Thanks alot. Do you recommend one over another?

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[ceh383]

Leo,
If you use ICS you will have to leave the computer with 2 nics on in order for the other one to gain access to the internet.
A better solution would be a cable/dsl router (http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?prid=20&grid=5). It costs more $$$, but it works better. Another benifit of the router is it provides a firewall in the form of NAT.

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All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

[Leo Blume]

Do I need 4 port to hook two machines? Will a 1 port model do? Is Linksys the best way to go? Intel?

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[ceh383]

If you have 2 machines you will need at least 2 ports. Use 4 port model, or use 1 port model + hub. I use a Linksys, it works great. I'm not sure about the Intel.

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All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

[Leo Blume]

Would that be all I need to share cable and create lan for printer and scanner sharing? Sorry I'm an idiot as far as this is concerned.

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De gustibus non est disputandum

[ceh383]

As far as creating a LAN & internet sharing, a NIC in each PC, a Router, a hub (depends on router), CAT5 cables. As for Scanner sharing, I haven't been able to share mine. If you can figure that out let me know.

This might work (http://www.zdnet.com/downloads/stories/info/0,,00126K,.html), it's not exactly sharing though.

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All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

[This message has been edited by ceh383 (edited 03-02-2001).]

[Leo Blume]

It's a Visioneer 7600 usb. Why don't I just walk it across the floor, it only weighs a few pounds. Thanks for your help, I think I may run into a few problems with the Control Panel- network- clients and adapters issue. I'll have to look for some tutorials soon. Too bad they're usually written in a way that make little sense to me. I blame the writers but secretly I think it cold be me.

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[thehigg]

Hey Leo,

Go with a linksys. I use the ether fast 10/100 5 port workgroup switch. (came with a free linux cd too). Don't limit yourself. Although you only have 2 machines. Keep room for others...You never know who may come over with a laptop and need to plug in.

I tried ICS, I am a CNE and just could'nt stand the inconsistant connection. Sometimes it's there.....sometimes its not. There when you don't need it...gone when you do!!!

Stores such as Frys sell small kits:
hub/router/switch
wall plates
x' of prefab jumper wire. at a Fairly reasonable price. They also sell kits with tools to make your own wires.(including directions for making crossover.

Good luck

Tim

thehigg@home.com

[Leo Blume]

Thanks, A friend of mine has the wireless Lynksys and loves it. Can sit on his deck and use the laptop. Of course he doesn't know that for sure because in Chicago we only have a three week deck sitting season and this ain't it.

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De gustibus non est disputandum