Internet routers

The Apple store guy is right. Both the Macs and the PC can connect to the router via DHCP, which basically means that the router will automatically assign an IP address to the Mac and PC's, for almost zero configuration. If you want to share the internet connection then this should be all you need to do, the Mac will automatically detect that the router is set to DHCP and configure itself automatically.

If you want to share files between Your mac and the PC's you will need to turn on Windows File sharing in sharing options in the system preferences pane. The Windows users will need to create a shared folder on their hard disks with the files in that you want to share.

 

I have a Linksys router and 2 PCs (1 Win98, one Win2k3 Enterprise Server) hooked up along with my iMac - I have no problems whatsoever, and the setup was a piece of cake.

If you have any troubles or questions getting your network set up, just let me know and I'd be happy to help you out. Alternatively, a good resource is the following thread

Don't listen to anything anyone from BestBuy says. In fact, you'll probably be farther ahead if you do the exact opposite of whatever they recommend...

 

Yeah. I used a Linksys router for two years to connect two PCs and an iBook too. So next time you get this kinda thing from a Best Buy guy, stamp on his/her foot.

The router comes with a big foldout instruction sheet. If you follow it step by step it should not be too hard. But with cable modems, typically there isn't even any login that the router has to go through. So 90% you can plug the three computers into the router and it will work with zero setup.

Good luck!

And feel free to ask for help here of course.