mb500
asked on
Two PCs, two phone points, can I use two broadband modems?
Hi - I don't want to use ethernet / crossover cables and I don't want to have to leave 1 computer on all the time. Is it possible to buy an adsl modem for each PC instead of networking them? Both PCs are already on different phone sockets (but on the same line)...
I haven't seen this mentioned anywhere. If it isn't possible (don't know why not?) then how could I link the broadband service without 1 computer having to be on all the time? (not possible - in bedroom).
Many thanks in advance!!!
Mb
I haven't seen this mentioned anywhere. If it isn't possible (don't know why not?) then how could I link the broadband service without 1 computer having to be on all the time? (not possible - in bedroom).
Many thanks in advance!!!
Mb
ASKER
The dsl modems would be used independently of eachother - i.e. not at the same time. Therefore the 1 IP address factor shouldn't be a problem.
I can't think why having 2 independently working modems wouldn't work. I don't want to communicate between the 2 computers and connecting them via cable could be messy and therefore unwanted.
If I really need a router, would I need a cable connection between both PCs?
Thanks
Mb
I can't think why having 2 independently working modems wouldn't work. I don't want to communicate between the 2 computers and connecting them via cable could be messy and therefore unwanted.
If I really need a router, would I need a cable connection between both PCs?
Thanks
Mb
ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
As I understand it, this is what you want to accomplish:
1. Share a single DSL account between 2 computers.
2. Share this connection without connecting the computers together with Ethernet cables.
3. Do not use a host computer to share the connection.
You will meet all of those requirements if you use one DSL modem, a wireless router to share the connection, and install wireless network cards in each computer. This method will allow you to have both computers use the Internet at the same time and is secure since routers include firewall features that the modem by itself doesn't. Your idea of using a separate DSL modem for each computer means that only one modem can be turned which also means that only one computer at a time can use the Internet. Also, if you don't want to share resources between the 2 computers, don't install "client for Microsoft networks" or "file and print sharing".
1. Share a single DSL account between 2 computers.
2. Share this connection without connecting the computers together with Ethernet cables.
3. Do not use a host computer to share the connection.
You will meet all of those requirements if you use one DSL modem, a wireless router to share the connection, and install wireless network cards in each computer. This method will allow you to have both computers use the Internet at the same time and is secure since routers include firewall features that the modem by itself doesn't. Your idea of using a separate DSL modem for each computer means that only one modem can be turned which also means that only one computer at a time can use the Internet. Also, if you don't want to share resources between the 2 computers, don't install "client for Microsoft networks" or "file and print sharing".
It sounds like you've been provided workable solutions. I think the best option would be the router option, You can pick 1 up from any electronics store for about 45$ - 50$. To answer your question about 2 different modems on 1 line. Your ISP has the unique MAC address of your modem on file. This is another way to control who is connecting and also that you are limited to the bandwidth that you are paying for. It is possible to trick them into thinking that the 2nd modem has the same MAC as the first, but Why bother? The router is a much more versitile and practical solution...
Besides all the advantages of using the router solution, you may have to consider that an ADSL modem often is supposed to be connected to the first phone connector in your home, through a filter which will block the data signal from spreading to the other connectors. In such a setup, you'd have to be unhooking the "first" modem to get the signal to reach the second one... I'd bet anyoune would grow tired of this situation quickly.
Regards
/RID
Regards
/RID
by default your ISP only provides you with 1 IP address the router must have NAT capabilities to solve this. NAT allows you to hide many "private IP's" behind the IP that was assigned by your ISP.