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Attached to the router are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to
the router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.
Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network
For a wired Ethernet network you need:
• Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks
• One router
• One broadband Internet connection (optional)
• Ethernet cables connecting all of the network equipment
When buying your router, be sure the model includes everything your network needs, including:
• Internet security features, such as a firewall, to protect your network from unwanted
intruders
• 4-port switch to eliminate the need for additional network hardware
• DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment to automatically configure network and IP
addresses
Determining if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer
To determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:
1 Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
2 Click System and Maintenance, then click System.
Important
To add the ability to access a wireless Ethernet network to your wired Ethernet
network, connect an access point to the router or use a router that has a built-in access
point.
Important
For best results, all Ethernet components should be either standard Ethernet (10
Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or
10/100/1000). A mixture of components rated at different speeds will result in your
network running at the speed of the slowest rated component.
Cable/DSL
modem
Router
8511856.book Page 49 Tuesday, November 21, 2006 5:14 PM