broadband

[thundercrack]

what happens if you connect two modems to the same phoneline( in different sockets) at the same time? can you both share the internet? whats the alternative?
thanks, alf.

[plowter]

As I understand it, it shouldn't work.

You need a hub/router. You have single DSL cable to connect to the internet. You want to be able to connect a number of PCs (say 4) to the internet. So you find a hub/router with 4 Ethernet inputs (and one DSL output).

Because you're sharing the internet connection, each PC may experience a reduced speed if all the PCs access the internet at the same time.

[vehelpfulguy]

You need a Router.

Dont just buy a Hub. Note a Hub will split a single cable into a number of sockets, 4 or 8 for example, but only within the network NOT at the point of entry.

A Hub (or switch, which is similar) is NOT the same as a Router.

For example I have a Router at the point the cable comes into the house.

Our family PC is plugged into that router.

I also have a single network cable plugged into the router which goes up to my office on the first floor.

In my office I have a Hub in which I can connect 2 or more computers.

Note there are two main types of routers, on for "phone line" customers (ADSL) and one for "Cable" customers (Virgin, NTL, Telewest etc).

Make sure you buy the correct one.

[thundercrack]

thanks guys, very helpful, all I need to know in two answers. and in plain english.
thanks again, alf.