Sharing Broadband over a LAN

[KITT]

Right,

BT are enabling my exchange next week and after much browsing I've decided to go with Metronet.

Now they don't supply a modem so I need to get one. However, I've currently got 2 computers linked together using a hub and CAT5 cable with RJ45 connectors. I'd like both of them to be able to access the broadband without the need for connection sharing software etc.

So, what do I go for? I'd like an all in one solution that can either plug into one of the ports on my existing hub or replace it all together. I'm not fussed, just want a cheap reliable solution. Also, I don't need or want wireless one.

Over to you

[adam1330]

How about one of these.

[docevi1]

you have three options, either buy a modem with a built in router and can work as part of a router, replace your hub with a router which has a built in modem or put a modem on a computer and set it up as a gateway.

The second option is the best IMO, I went for this one from that company about a year ago. While it's not the best in the world, it's not the most expensive and comes with most of the stuff you need.

That netgear one linked above is also a decent unit.

[malman]

docevi1 forgot to mention its also dead easy to setup. I've used a few now and they seem very robust.

[Ian_H]

I have the wireless version of the Netgear router linked earlier and it seems a great piece of kit, had a wireless network set up and running in about 20 minutes - no problems at all

[FunkyNige]

We've got the Netgear for 3 computers sharing broadband, works fine, easy to set up, still quick enough for LAN gaming (if you're into that sort of thing).

[docevi1]

malman said:

docevi1 forgot to mention its also dead easy to setup. I've used a few now and they seem very robust.

yep, they are quite easy to set up intially, but until they released the new firmware (www.dslsupport.com) they were a pain to fiddle with. Much better now and they include a firewall inbuilt.

Netgear however are a much bigger name and are more respected in the techie community so I'm told. You make your choices I'd go with the Alcatel like I did (it's newer hardware as well) personally.

>> Edited by docevi1 on Saturday 10th April 11:04

[KITT]

Thanks all for the suggestions

looks like the Netgear is a most popular one and is infact the one Metronet recommends! As an added bonus, Amazon are setting them for £62 so I think I'll go for it.

Just got to wait for the line check and hopefully I'll be in broadband heaven by next weekend