SBC - DSL - Networking WinXP & Win98 1

[ShaneMerryman]

Hello, I've tried several times to network two computers together, all i need to do is share internet connection between two computers using South Western Bell's DSL connection. I have a hub (Netgear ethernet hub 4 port model# en104tp), and the DSL modem box (EFficient networks and i think it's 5360 .. not sure) that SBC gave me. I am running windows xp and my roommate is running win 98, what do i need to do to share a internet connection or at least see each other's computer.. i've tried going through all the wizards on xp about creating a network disk and installing it on each others computer.. but that's all i know what else to do... when i had win 2000 it had a option to click to share internet connection and it worked just fine.. but now i can't find that option.. any info is much apprectiated .. thanks

 

[TheOldMan346]

ShaneMerryman,

Here are step-by-step instructions on setting up ICS on XP

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/xp_ics/

Before you do it, however, consider this. How are the computers and hub connected? Note that there are options and conditions.
[ul][li]If you have mutiple IP's from your ISP, all you need to do is connect the cable modem to the hub and plug the computers into the hub. Set each of the computers with an ISP provided IP address and you're done. No sharing needed.[/li]
[li]If you have a single IP from your ISP, you will need to use Internet Connection Sharing. You will need two NIC's in the XP computer to do this. Here's why:

http://www.practicallynetworked.com/sharing/twonets.htm.

You will also need to connect this way:

[tt]Cable Modem
|
|
NIC 1
XP Computer (hosts the internet connection)
NIC 2
|
|
Hub
|
|
Other Computer[/tt][/li][/ul]

Of course, the best way to do this is to get a router. It will share the internet connection and additionally, give you firewall protection. Most these days use integrated switches which are far more efficient than a hub so your overall network performance will also be better

Hope that helps.
The Old Man

 

[ShaneMerryman]

Thank you very much sir. Everything is working just fine.
TheYoungMan