A dedicated broadband router is a much better approach than the one above when more than two computers need to share one broadband internet connection. With this method, all computers on the network are connected together using a switch (or hub), and the switch is connected to the broadband router. All the computers can then connect to the internet using the router as a gateway (see Figure 3). The router would normally be left on; it has no moving parts, is low voltage and silent. This means that any computer on the network can connect to the internet at any time without delay.
All routers provide a degree of network security through a technology called Network Address Translation or NAT. NAT means that computers on the internet can only see your router, and they cannot gain direct access to your own computer.
Broadband routers usually have no moving parts in them (i.e. a disk or fan), so they are silent in operation and hardly ever fail.
Setting broadband routers up is usually a straight-forward process too. Most will automatically detect the necessary settings, and they will usually set up your home network for you too (using a technology called Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol or DHCP).
Why use this approach?
When more than two computers need to share an internet connection. When the uptime of the main 'gateway' computer cannot be relied upon (as is the case with Microsoft ICS). When you don't want your own computer connected directly to the internet for security reasons. When the additional security features of a router are desirable.
1. Broadband Internet connection sharing using a hardware router
Hardware Requirements for connection sharing using a broadband router
1 x network card and network cable per computer
Each computer must have an Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC) installed, and must be connected to the router with Ethernet cable.
1 x broadband router
It is the router that allows multiple computers on a network to use the same internet connection. Broadband routers typically perform multiple tasks, and those suitable for home and small office use will often have a built in four port switch, router (and firewall), and either a cable or ADSL modem. It is usually preferable to use an all in one solution than three separate devices.
1 x switch (if not included with the router)
If the broadband router does not have a built in switch, then a separate one will need to be purchased. You must make sure the switch has enough ports to connect all the computers and the router together.
1 x broadband modem (if not included with the router)
If the broadband router does not have a built in modem (either a cable or ADSL modem), then you will have to purchase a separate modem. Most routers will require that the modem has an Ethernet port to connect to. However many broadband modems are either PCI (internal cards) or external devices with USB connections. These types of modems will not work with typical routers, so care should be taken when making a purchasing decision.
2. Broadband Internet connection sharing using a hardware router with separate switch and modem.
2. Broadband Internet connection sharing using a hardware router with separate switch and modem.
~pctech