Two computers online?
 

Alright, got myself a problem here. Basically, I want to get online via a hardline with the current broadband connection supplied by Virgin.

Problem is, I think the service is set up so only the original PC can get online. I just hunkered downstairs the additional Desktop to get online at the connection of the old PC, and it's not having it.

I thought I would simply be able to use an Ethernet switch to get them both online, but is it so that Virgin have assigned it so only a specific IP can get online? :dunce:

What are my options here then? I'd really rather avoid having to use wireless because it won't be as fast and safe as a hardline. Bridgeing the connections with the old PC isn't really viable as it is a dinosaur, too... :erm:

Many thanks!

Re: Two computers online?
 

You need a router.

Re: Two computers online?
 

Pop down to PC World and buy a Linksys WRT54g. It has wireless capability which you would be daft not to buy in case you later decide you need it. You don't need to have it activated for now if you don't want it.

Switch everything off, connect modem -> router -> PCs, then switch on modem, then switch on router, then switch on PCs. (Before you do this you may need to connect a PC to the router without it being connected to the modem, in order to do some setting up - see the instructions in the box for details).

Re: Two computers online?
 

Ok, I'll do that. The Linksys will let me run a hardline up the stairs and connect the old PC too eh? (The old one doesn't have wireless capacity)

But will I need to get in touch with Virgin in order to change IP to the router or some such thing?

Cheers for the speedy replies.

Re: Two computers online?
 

no just do it

Re: Two computers online?
 

Actually, doesn't the router have to be Netgear in order to be compatable? This connection dates back to the NTL generation.

Re: Two computers online?
 

no

Re: Two computers online?
 

Ok, thank you. :D

Well, just to satisfy my curiosity, why wasn't my rig allowed to get connected at the access point for the old PC? Why won't a simple ethernet switch suffice?

Re: Two computers online?
 

Because virgin will only issue one Ip address per modem routers have something called a NAT (network address translator) which allows a single external IP address to be shared between multiple devices.

Re: Two computers online?
 

Ok, thanks. Do I need to tinker about with the router, or is it just plug and play, and the only problem I face is running the cat5 cable up stairs? :D

Re: Two computers online?
 

Depends on the router, but nowadays that will be all that is needed. For my linksys all I needed to do was power everything off, modem included, plug it all in, and power it all up starting with modem, router, then PC - letting each one settle bfore turning the next on. You may need to run a wizrd for the router but it will be well documented.

Re: Two computers online?
 

Whew... Great, problem solved. I just get a refund on this switch and pick up a Linksys router.

Well, there's no exceptions to this rule then? Doesn't matter if the Ntl modem is old or anything like that? (Sorry to be nagging here, but I just want to get as much info as I can)

Re: Two computers online?
 

As long as it is a Cable Router and not an ADSL modem/router it will be fine. Ay brand will work.

Re: Two computers online?
 

How do I tell the difference?

When I've looked at it, a cat5 cable has been coming out of it.

Re: Two computers online?
 

Will usually say. But if in doubt, post up the brand and model name and someone will confirm for you. Or, take the adivce from Chris_T and "Pop down to PC World and buy a Linksys WRT54g." Is perfect for your needs, inexpensive etc.