Two computers, one DSL

[n8mac]

Hi,

I have a problem at work. We have in our front office a G4 connected via ethernet to DSL. In the back office we just bought a used pc with xp on it. We want both to connect to the internet. We just had the phone company come out and install the DSL line in the back office. I connected the pc via ethernet also.

The problem now is that both computers can't be on the internet at once. What are our options?

 

[teeforb]

If I am understanding you correctly, then all you need is a router.

 

[mac-convert]

Call your phone company back and explain that they messed up the DSL installation, and would they please come back and fix it. Make it plain to them that you have two computers.

Or you could install a switch and connect your computers to that and connect the switch to the DSL modem. You would share the bandwidth, but depending on your business that may not be an issue.

If I am understanding you correctly, then all you need is a router.

Yeah, probably correct, but most dsl modems have the capability of handling more than one computer at a time. I think that the phone company botched something and installed the new dsl on the same phone line, but in another office.

 

[byakuya]

If I am understanding you correctly, then all you need is a router.

yep...that would be the easiest I guess...just buying a router and some WLAN sticks and connecting to a Wlan.

 

[neonblue2]

A router

 

[n8mac]

Call your phone company back and explain that they messed up the DSL installation, and would they please come back and fix it. Make it plain to them that you have two computers...

So I should be able to use the line for both computers, that's what I thought. I will give them a call.

Yeah, probably correct, but most dsl modems have the capability of handling more than one computer at a time. I think that the phone company botched something and installed the new dsl on the same phone line, but in another office.

These modems have a plug for only one computer.

If I am understanding you correctly, then all you need is a router.

See, the problem is I can't have the two offices connected with a cable, they are across a hallway from one another. That's why I had the phone company come and install ($240usd) the second line in the second office so that both computers can use the net. But as it turns out I have to turn one modem off so the other can be connected.

Thanks for all your help thus far guys.

 

[apfhex]

See, the problem is I can't have the two offices connected with a cable, they are across a hallway from one another.

Wireless router?

Really, a router IS the solution in this case, providing you can get both machines connected to it. You can't have more than 1 modem on the same line (from what I know), you'd need a separate line. If you supposedly had them set things up on a separate phone line, then maybe they DID botch it.

 

[joegomolski]

Two computers, one DSL

I had the same problem.

The solution is Apple AirPort. Your dsl line provides the signal, input, for the AirPort, which then broadcasts that signal to another computer, which has a wireless card installed.

You only need 1 dsl, argue for a refund from the phone company.

Buy an Apple AirPort, make sure both computers have wireless cards installed, and your done.

In this I'm assuming that the 2 computers are, as you say, across the hall. Nee close together in terms of AirPort reach.

 

[yg17]

I had the same problem.

The solution is Apple AirPort. Your dsl line provides the signal, input, for the AirPort, which then broadcasts that signal to another computer, which has a wireless card installed.

You only need 1 dsl, argue for a refund from the phone company.

Buy an Apple AirPort, make sure both computers have wireless cards installed, and your done.

In this I'm assuming that the 2 computers are, as you say, across the hall. Nee close together in terms of AirPort reach.

Or, you can save your money and buy a much cheaper router that works just as well

 

[jellomizer]

I had the same problem.

The solution is Apple AirPort. Your dsl line provides the signal, input, for the AirPort, which then broadcasts that signal to another computer, which has a wireless card installed.

You only need 1 dsl, argue for a refund from the phone company.

Buy an Apple AirPort, make sure both computers have wireless cards installed, and your done.

In this I'm assuming that the 2 computers are, as you say, across the hall. Nee close together in terms of AirPort reach.

A Router from Linksys or DLink or Netgear are cheaper and work well too. Sometimes better because they are not afraid to look God Awful to give you better reception.

 

[OrangeSVTguy]

you should get a wireless G router. i've had mine for a few years now and still works great in my home. i currently have my xp laptop connected wirelessly and wired thorugh my dock, my gf's xp pc connected by wire my xbox 360 and ps2 connected with wire and my mac connected wirelessly all on the same microsoft router.

you can only hook one computer to a modem to one phone line so you can't hook up 2 computers on 2 different modems to the same phone line, they should have known that so i'd push for a refund.

if you go that route i have an extra new usb wireless 802.11g adapter i'd sell you. i accidently bought 2 for my mac but work with xp.