How do I share a DSL connection with 5+ PCs?

[craigdawg]

I have to set up a small peer-to-peer network with six PCs for a three month project and all I really need the PCs to do is share a DSL connection.

What device would would I need that could to act as a DHCP server, do NAT translations, and provide some rudimentary firewall protection for more than four PCs? (Most broadband routers have only a four port switch built in).

I don't want to do wi-fi.

I guess I could plug a hub into a broadband router?

 

[tomf87]

...I guess I could plug a hub into a broadband router?

You hit the nail on the head there. Just get a basic router with a four port switch, then get another 4-port or 8-port switch to connect to the router.

If it were my decision, I'd go for an 8-port switch, if it were an office. The cost is minimal, and you have expansion room. And don't get a hub. They are very inefficient and the cost of a switch will get you greater network bandwidth available to the systems without much cost.

 

[jeremy.king]

Like one of these

http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?grid=34&scid=29&prid=604

 

[tomf87]

Like one of these

http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?grid=34&scid=29&prid=604

Well, lookie there. I didn't know there was a broadband router with an 8-port switch. That will work nicely.

 

[craigdawg]

Thanks! That looks like good solution for my little project.