I'm at a bit of an impasse with my new system. I really can't go much further until I find out how to include my old but very powerful computer on a network. The intention is to install the full version of FSUIPC and run wide_fs, using the old beast for running weather etc. I'm not new to computers but have never had to create a network before. I've heard there is a ' magic' ethernet cable that makes it easier. Does anyone know what they're called?

 

Jon

Tell me I'm wrong but I thought all you needed was a router. And, of course, the cables if you want to make it wired.

Tell me I'm wrong but I thought all you needed was a router. And, of course, the cables if you want to make it wired.

Well, I don't know. Apparently 2 of the connections are reversed, something like the old null modem trick. Looks like I'm going to need a new router. This is getting expensiver.

 

Jon

You're think of a crossover ethernet cable (normal network cabling is straight through).  Crossover is used only to connect 2 pcs together.  Dont do that.  Get a router and set up a proper home network.

Yes, get a router.  I assume your computers already have ports on the back for ethernet cables that you're using to plug into your cable modem.  It's a very simple setup.

 

I would get a wireless router, even if you only plan to set up a wired network right now.  That will let you use other stuff as well as providing enough ports for your wired network.  We got a new printer last year and just plugged in the power cord.  Presto - every computer in the house could see it.

 

But, when you set up your wireless network, make sure you use a password for wireless access.  Otherwise your neighbors will all have access to your machines.

 

Get a name-brand router, by the way.  The few dollars you save by going cheap isn't worth the aggravation.

Most Internet providers will give you a wireless router today with your subscription, if you have an older model modem, contact your Internet provider to see if they can upgrade you to one of the new ones with a wireless router included. This way you won't have to go out and buy one.

Helo is right, you dont want that. This could quite quickly get a bit deeper than what we can cover in a couple sentences but you might already have a router with open lan ports, best to check. If you dont have available lan ports on the router, get an inexpensive switch. If you plug your computer directly into a cable modem, then and only then should you get yourself a router. Given the perceived level of networking knowledge, get a nerd friend to help you set up the router if needed. Once both computers are on the network, then you need to set up a workgroup and be able to access one from the other with a couple of mapped drives. It's been awhile since I set mine up but I believe the widefs docs tell you what you need to do. there is some configuration involved. Back to the nerd for assistance.

 

Whatever you do, for the most stable connectivity use a wired connection given the choice. Wireless is subject to random unexplainable drops, interference, etc.

I'll get one of these Billion BP7800NL Wireless N ADSL2+ Firewall Modem Rourter .  Billion have a good name don't they.

 

Jon

 

 

You're think of a crossover ethernet cable (normal network cabling is straight through). Crossover is used only to connect 2 pcs together. Dont do that. Get a router and set up a proper home network.

 

Absolutely the correct advice, particularly for some of the more advanced addons that will work so much better and easier with a home network.  Most cable modems these days already include a router in them. If your modem has wireless and ethernet cable access it's likely that it has a router built in.

 

Ensure you activate the firewall.  No sense in going without the added protection, especially these days.

Home Network, it is. I've only just renewed my ISP and have ten years loyalty. The modem is a one port relic. I reckon I might apply some pressure and see if I can get an upgrade. Failing that, I'm off to Sydney for a week and a friend was provided with one which he'll never need. His computer use is confined to filling out his footy tips once a week (with difficulty). I hope it's not locked so I might be able to save some cash. They reckon Boats are a hole in the water you throw money into. This computer is giving it a run for its money.

 

Jon

Home Network, it is. I've only just renewed my ISP and have ten years loyalty. The modem is a one port relic. I reckon I might apply some pressure and see if I can get an upgrade. Failing that, I'm off to Sydney for a week and a friend was provided with one which he'll never need. His computer use is confined to filling out his footy tips once a week (with difficulty). I hope it's not locked so I might be able to save some cash. They reckon Boats are a hole in the water you throw money into. This computer is giving it a run for its money.

 

Jon

 

This is true Jon, one thing about discussions on these forums are people don't realize how much we pay for computer parts in the South Pacific. Parts don't come cheap in our neck of the woods so use what you can get yer hands on. 

 

Our friends in the USA have Newegg.....and we don't  :huh:

This is true Jon, one thing about discussions on these forums are people don't realize how much we pay for computer parts in the South Pacific. Parts don't come cheap in our neck of the woods so use what you can get yer hands on. 

 

Our friends in the USA have Newegg.....and we don't  :huh:

I've been looking at exchange rates through some of the sites, too. The AU$ is at US$1.05. You lose most or all of that advantage.

 

Jon

jonss1948, on 20 Apr 2013 - 5:01 PM, said:

 

I've been looking at exchange rates through some of the sites, too. The AU$ is at US$1.05. You lose most or all of that advantage.

 

Jon

However, we do have Umart and PCCasegear. Not such a bad compromise. My ISP wanted $149.00 for a new Wireless modem, which I declined. I have just been in Sydney and a friend had one he didn't need. When he went to get it for me, his wife had thrown it out. It had never been plugged in. Ever. So, the Court finds your plea of 'Justifiable Homicide', upheld and you are free to go.

 

Jon