[herbal]

Hi

I have an ethernet (wireless) router but connect to the 'net via a USB modem. According to the manual for the router, I should connect the modem between the phone line and the router, assumming the modem is of the ethernet kind. Could I use a USB/ethernet cable or is this setup doomed to fail?

(Am using XP home on both desktop and laptop, the latter having a wireless card fitted. Would like to be able to both computers talking on wireless home network and sharing internet access. I reckon that if this can be configured to work, the desktop would need to be on, acting as a server. That's ok.)

Thanks to anyone who can help...

[Jamey]

Basically, there are two ways of doing things. Either you have the modem plugged in directly to your machine using the USB or Ethernet connection, or you have the modem plugged only into your router. Any machines then connect via the router using a wired Ethernet or wireless connection.

The connection between the modem and the router may be Ethernet or USB but obviously both devices must support the same type. Ethernet is probably the best and most reliable bet. Just make sure the modem cable is plugged into the "WAN" port on the router.

[herbal]

Thanks Jamey for your reply but I don't think I've made myself clear as to what exactly I'm asking.

I have a USB modem (supplied by my ISP) but an ethernet router (originally bought to suit the wireless WAN type internet connection which I was using at the time). Unfortunately, the local company providing this service went belly-up so I am now connected through Tiscali (ADSL).

What I'm wondering is: Is there any way to use my current hardware? Could I connect the router and modem with a USB/ethernet converter cable? Or can I share my internet connection across the network and through the main PC and its USB modem?

[andyhargreaves]

If your old Router is an ADSL Modem/Router you will be able to - just input the settings provided by Tiscali into the router admin page. If you are not sure post back with the make/model and we'll try to help.

If not, the answer is no. The USB modem will need the software to work, which you cannot install on the wireless router. You'll need to buy one of these. I have this model router and it works flawlessly.

Good luck.

Andy

[herbal]

Guess I'll just have to bite the bullet and buy some new gear (no modem in router)

Thanks Andy & Jamey

All the best

Al

[alexia]

Can someone help me please? I have a packard bell computer and want to get broadband on it. I was told to but an network ethernet card as my computer has none and my modem has an ether net port only. I ordered a network card from ebay but it doesnt seem to fit my computer i was told that they fit all any ideas? Its driving me mad!

[peepe64]

bit worried now that my question sounds stupid but here goes!we have an ordinary recon computer that has windows xp, we have just bought my disabled daughter a lap top with wifi etc for her birthday. went out and purchased a belkin adsl modem with wireless g router and spent 6hours trying to connect it to my computer! do we need a stick thing(sorry!) for ours or am i doing something wrong?

[danzil]

glad you got it sorted peepe64, i have read your other post
danzil