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General discussion

Mixed Network

Mar 7, 2005 9:38PM PST

I hope this makes sense. I have DSL connected to a wireless router, 1 PC connected wired to the router, another wirelesly, because of the location. I would like to add another PC in close proximity to the one that is wireless. The wireless PC also has a wired card. Can I add a wired switch to the wireless computer and then wire the "new" PC to that, effectively going through the wireless PC to access the network? Or is there another, better option? Basically, the other PC will be used as a "dummy", mainly for the additional storage space afforded by the HD, the system itself is old and of little value otherwise. Anyone have ideas, opinions on this?

Discussion is locked

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I wouldn't.
Mar 7, 2005 9:59PM PST

While it is possible, you are performing what is called a DOUBLE NAT and such is something that most will not be able to accomplish.

There are range extenders and one of my favorites is a Wifi client device, much like your USB or PCI card but connects via Ethernet. That unit has been super since I can run 100 feet of ethernet from the PC to the ethernet client wifi device and get great connections without a range extender.

Best of luck if you attempt a double NAT. I like to watch what happens.

Bob

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I don't know why its so complicated...
Mar 8, 2005 12:53AM PST

Just put your new pc where you want it, and add a wireless card.

Or, take out the HD and install it on the wireless pc, and donate the rest of your old pc to whoever needed.

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complicated = cheap!!!
Mar 8, 2005 4:48AM PST

Basically, because I have all the items needed to do it the way I asked about, and I'm cheap. I thought about the wireless card, believe me. Just thought if I could do it without add'l investment, so much the better. I suppose that's the way I'll go. I don't want to remove the hard drive, because I often have uses for old systems so wanted to keep it intact.

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Go for it.
Mar 8, 2005 5:04AM PST

Just be aware that performing a double nat is not for the timid and I can't help you make it work.

Bob

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Curiousity...
Mar 9, 2005 12:05AM PST

Just out of curiousity, since you've scared me now, what exactly can you tell me about a double NAT and how to set one up? It surely doesn't sound "plug and play". will trying it mess up the existing network? I mean, if the worst case scenario is that I can't get the new stuff to work like I want, then I'll just back out and add a wireless card or adapter to the other system, no harm, no foul.

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A double NAT is...
Mar 9, 2005 12:12AM PST

You have this sort of connection...

Cable/DSL -> Router (that's NAT 1) -> anouther PC that will run something like ICS (that's NAT 2).

You can learn more about DOUBLE NAT on google.com Again, given the complexity, I can't support it in this small space. But some do get it to work.

Bob

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Back out.
Mar 9, 2005 2:28AM PST

When you messed up. No one promises you that you can back out and get everything up running again. Unless you know networking.