Router question

[macavoy]

I have DSL and two computers at home. Via a router I could connect them both to the same DSL hookup?? IS this right? and I was told external firewall protection wont slow down your system like a normal download one will?? I just activated the XP firewall and it has slowed me down significantly.

Also someone said a router with firewall blocks out your isp address on all outgoing messages/posts,etc. Is this also true. Thanks

 

[infinii]

Yes you can share your DSL across multiple computers using a router. But to be more specific, it has to be one of those Cable/DSL routers. 'router' is a more generic term and doesn't imply that it provides 'sharing' capabilities.

You shouldn't need XP's firewall. If you buy a decent router, it should have firewall abilities built-in. And no, it shouldn't slow you down. It only limits what you can do and what people can do to you.

No, the router will not block your ip address.

I would recommend anything on this page

Linksys

DLink isn't bad either but stay away from SMC.

If you are concerned with the speed within the internal network (ie. copying files across computers), get one of the switches as they work in full-duplex mode as opposed to the routers which are only half-duplex.