How can I use the Internet on two computers at once?

Sharing cable Internet between two computers

If you have broadband Internet service to use several computers in your household at the same time, you can do so through several easy methods.

Possible methods include:

• Router
• Hub
• Direct Cable
• Crossover Cable

Router: You can buy a router to connect multiple computers to the same modem. Routers have become much cheaper in recent years and can be purchased for about $50 from most computer or electronics stores. They do require installation, but it’s not that difficult if you are good at reading directions from a manual. It requires only one IP address and the speed is genrally good.

Hub: You can purchase a hub kit to connect two computers to the modem. The cost of the hub is generally $25 or more. It is fairly simple to set up, but will require two IP addresses. Speed is relatively good.

Direct Cable: You can connect two computers to the Internet by using a parallel cable between the computers. It’s very simple to set up and requires only one IP address. However, speed can be greatly affected. It is recommended to use this only as a temporary or emergency solution.

Crossover Cable: You can connect by using a crossover network cable. This method is a little more complicated to set up, relatively speaking. You must designate one of the computers as a host and the other as a guest, and you may also have to adjust your network settings. Speed with this type of setup is generally good.