why should i use a router? isn't the modem enough?
354144
The modem is enough to connect you to the Internet but a router can do a couple things for you.\n\n1.  If you have an internet service that requires a user ID and password such as SBC DSL or AOL Broadband the router can be programmed with the ID and password and login to your Internet service for you.\n\n2.  It acts as a hardware firewall seperating your PC or PCs from the rest of the Internet using a technique known as network address translation (NAT).  Because of this it can actually keep your PC from getting infected with some self-propagating viruses like NIMDA for instance.
1086358
Trouble shoot your modem...just a thought
77103
I think you should use cat5 cable if at all possibile and a wired router. How many stories are you trying to penetrate with a signal? If you are on dial-up, what's the point, except to network the two systems.
596803
No, but you may have to consider what equipment you attach to your LAN. You need to consult your ISP, modem documentation, or the modem's website to see if it has a router incorporated into the modem. They do this so that you can have the protection of a Router with NAT. Quite a few DSL providers hace modems with the feature. If it has a router incorporate into the modem you will only need a hub*, switch**, or wireless access point***. I have BellSouth DSL. I requested a wireless modem&#92;router and they sent me one at no cost. \nIf you do decide to add your own router and the modem has one incorporated into it, your ISP will have to talk you into changing the setting to allow the new router to work with your current system.
38158
you do not need a router or hub unless your sharing internet.  If you just want to network the two together you need a crossover cable.  I do recommend the router though.
335292
you are going to have to configure your router.  Follow the directions that came with it.\nIt may also be set to automatically require a password, which you will need to enter in your computer (or disable this function and make it an open network)
366223
as an soon to be A++ Certified Technician and after numerous years of experience the only thing i tell people is never DL the stupid softwares that comes with DSL, Cable, or even wireless router. \n\nin any case just get the drivers if needed.\n\nyou can configure your dsl modem from a http browse.
869606
You're better off just buying a cheap router (like Netgear). If you daisy chain them - from the port to PC A to PC B, for example, then PC A will have to be on whenever you want to use PC B
960309
Still go with a wireless router, but put a encrypted key on the router so only you have access to it.  I use this set up and it is a great way to share the DSL I have.
451083
seeing that you computer is so old\nyou may run into some problems..\nbut my answer is\ngo to your local CompUSA and ask a TECH to help you get the cables and router needed and ask them how to set it up..\nthey WILL tell and even draw you a diagram if needed.\nand when you get home..you still have trouble..all you have to do is call them on the telephone and they will walk you through it..right then and there..\nso that is what I would tell even a family member to do...\nGood Luck\nand God Bless\nSMILE...you will need to SMILE......
1044153
You seem to have skipped a step, defining your requirements. You can host a domain with a 486pc and a modem connected to an ISP but would you want to, unlikely! What is it you actually want to do? When you know that, then you can investigate the hardware and software required to accomplish the task.
829166
Get one of the routers suggested by other folks as per your interest. I'm using Netgear and have found no problem with it.\n\nConnection will be like this\n>Modem --(RJ45 Cable)--->WiFi Router------>(RJ45 Cable)----> PC with LAN card\n>Laptop with WiFi LAN Card connects to router thru WiFi\n\n1.Get one Wifi router\n2.Change your modem IP to 192.168.0.1, If it is 192.168.1.1\n   (Because routers mostly have the same IP which will cause problem during automatic router config steps)\n3. Rest you can find in your router manual
779620
No, you are better off with a Router, and SPLIT the broadband connection.  If you really wanted a second modem, you would also need an additional phone line.   That would double all of the costs.  \n\nThe router also establishes a local area network, so you can share files and printers.  I recommend LinkSys\n\nGood luck and Happy Computing!
1142566
A router isn't essential, though its certainly what I'd recommend. \n\nThe simplest (and cheapest) way to connect them is by a cross-over ethernet cable, which means that both PCs must have a network interface, either built in to the motherboard or through an add-on card. Of course this approach is only viable if you're able to route the cable through the house OK, you didnt say if the PCs would be in the same room.\n\nOnce you have this connection made use the 'network set up wizard' in Windows to configure your PC with ICS (Internet Connection Sharing) --- this will also allow you to create a floppy disc with which you can set up the other PC with the correct settings.\n\nUsing a router is very similar, though you'd need 2 'straight through ethernet cables' to connect each PC to the router. Your internet connection is then handled by the router which gives the security benefit of not exposing either machine to the internet, traffic is handled by the router on behalf of the PCs. Once again you'd need to be able to run the cables OK.\n\nIf running cables around isnt an option, you have the option of using a wireless router, at least for the connection from the second PC--one of them will have to be connected by ethernet cable to successfully set it up. \nBear in mind a wireless network isn't as secure as a wired one, if you do use this method please follow the advice at sites such as http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,844020,00.asp and http://www.netgear.co.uk/securing_wireless_network.php ... if you do a google/yahoo search for 'securing a wireless network' you'll find lots of good sites..... and don't forget about popping into http://www.microsoft.com and checking put their security advice.\n\nIf all that seems complicated, dont worry...its really very simple, particularly with the configuration being 'wizard' driven.
8400
Firewall software tend to give you more control. Also, if you don't know about TCP/IP ports or stuff like that, Firewall software can be useful.\n\nBut I don't believe you need software if you have the router. \n\nIf you're on a public network (ie. Wireless), firewall software is a good idea.
111336
I honestly think that if you don't know this... you shouldn't try it out either, since the interal workings of a router are delicate and it's a command line interface - help is only friendly to those who already know what they are doing in there..
912047
My guess is that your modem only allows one method of connection - either USB or ethernet, not both.  You say in your question wireless router, do you have 4 ports + the one internet port on the back, or just 1 port?  If you only have one, then it is just a wireless access point.  If it is a wireless router, you would be better off placing the modem in bridged mode and running everything through the router.  However, in one of your updates, you mention that "the broadband controller has some problem" - do you mean the network connection on your computer?  You might try reinstalling the drivers and see if that takes care of the issue.