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General discussion

Network setup questions

Jan 30, 2005 3:02PM PST

I am new to network setup and need to know my best way to do this.. I have an incoming LAN cable and want to take that and split it for 8-10 laptops. I want all to be able to acess the internet through this connection, I also believe it will be one IP address for all these if thats possible.What would be the best way to do this without great loss of signal strength? Is there a signal booster or will the hub boost the signal enough? Please advise on some good hardware for me to look at as well

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In regard to this>>>>
Jan 31, 2005 7:08AM PST

"I also believe it will be one IP address for all these if thats possible.What would be the best way to do this without great loss of signal strength?"

The single IP address will be assigned to you by the ISP, but if you wish to distribute the internet connection across 8-10 PCS, a wireless router is best. I have found that any of the major brands (Linksys, D-Link, Netgear, Belkin) all offer what you need.
Just a warning that this many PCs connecting at the same time will test your broadband providers speed.

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boardband tested? no way
Feb 4, 2005 6:03AM PST

I doubt if 8-10 computers can "test" your broadband bandwidth - unless they are all downloading movies/music at the same time.

get a d-link or linksys or netgear broadband router and connect it to your DSL/Cable modem and connect the PC's to the router; and you'll be surfing.

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Linksys
Feb 4, 2005 9:25AM PST

I like Linksys the best of all. Never had any problems, easy set up. Get their wirless router. B or G. They have easy auto config through their website. Signal wise, if you are worried about that get a signal booster(You wont need it unless you are getting far away from the router or have thick walls between you with metal or concrete. but you probably wont need one.) Linksys has good prices and performs well.

I only use Linksys, but i know others that only use D-link. It is just what you like. I would research what you want to do compared to what type you need(Just go to the brand website)

Hope this helps a little, any questions just post or e-mail,

-Tyler