Printer on a small network

[robski]

I am about to link 2 computers to a small network using a 4 port BB router. I want to share a printer between the 2 computers and assuming I get a network compatable printer, do I just plug the printer into one of the spare ethernet ports and assign it an IP address etc and away I go, or do I need other equipment?

Or is it as simple as connecting the prnter to 1 computer by USB and the other PC just finds the printer thro the 2nd PC and the network.

Any weblinks to idiots guide to setting this type of small LAN up would be most appreciated

[kempie]

You pretty much nailed the answer yourself.

Scenario 1 does not need extra equipment. Each PC and the printer are individual devices on the network with their own IP address.

Scenario 2 just needs the printer properties on the first PC to be set up as a shared printer. You assign a share name and the second PC can then use it provided the first PC is running.

[Niall58]

I found www.practicallynetworked.com and its associated forums to be a good resource when i was setting up my home network.