Need help on Ethernet Network 1

[rirusstek2]

WE have this home Ethernet Network connected through a 8 port hub, 4 computers running WinXP and a DSL modem

All the computers have Norton Firewall.

They all work just perfect when they are connected to the internet via TCP/IP.

All the computers have their own IP.

However we are having quite a bit of trouble trying to figure out HOW to Share ANYTHING else except the Internet conection.

Is there a guide or web page or HELP that offers a simple or clear way to do this?

We have tried the wizard and seem to run us into an endless loop.

Thanks for the help.

 

[bcastner]

You either want to purchase a hardware broadband router, or purchase a good proxy server software.

The problem is that you are using essentially public IPs from the ISP, with public DNS servers providing all name resolution.

You need to seperate your LAN traffic, and route your internet traffic.

What you want to do could be accomplished easily with even a 1 port router (such as the Linksys BEFSR11) and your existing switch.

You would only need 1 IP from your ISP which likely would save you on a monthly basis.

 

[bcastner]

You could explore using LMHOSTS files on each machine and approaching a network in that fashion. A hardware router is my strongest recommendation however. See:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=101927

 

[rirusstek2]

Well, bcastner, When you know, you know and you sure do.

Thanks AGAIN for your help, and as you advise, I'll go with the Linksys Router but the BEFSR41 since it has the switch included and the will elinate "another" power converter.

Be sure I'll sleep better tonite knowing that tomorrow I won't have to try and figure the XP "Wizard" AGAIN.

Thank for your help.

 

[rirusstek2]

Hey bcastner, how about the BEFSX41 instead of the BEFSR41, does this X model have an advantage for what we have set up?

Thanks....

 

[bcastner]

Only real strength of the "X" is for multiple VPN endpoints, and I do not think you are there yet.

Do "R", it is the bread and butter of Linksys and is, along with the WRT54G, the best supported product that they make.