Help with internet access

[Bardolph]

Ok, so we just got a dell, and I set it up last night next to this computer. We use cable internet, and if I'm not mistaken, the cable modem connects to the computer with a LAN cable. The dell has a LAN connection on the back, but I'm thinking there's more to it than just plug it into our existing modem and go. Do we have to have something installed?

 

[Toasted]

I think you'll have to register your MAC address with your ISP. What ISP are you using?

 

[Bardolph]

Comcast.

 

[DaftCat]

Hub is correct in a way, but it depends on how many IPs your ISP gives out.

If it gives one IP, then you require a router.

A router is a better option anyway because it can protect youp PCs from the crap that -WILL- hit your IP segment.

Offtopic: I record ALL IP connections and a vast majority of it is trojans, port scans, all sorts of crap.

DCat

 

[Bardolph]

I don't need them both on the net at the same time. The dell is going to replace this one. I tried plugging the cable into the dell and using internet explorer, but I couldn't get it to work. Something on the lower right toolbar detected there was a LAN connection, but it gave me some message like the connection being limited. Something makes me think I might need an ethernet card?

 

[Schwinn]

did you install the CD that came with the comcast equipment?

I don't have comcast but ISPs always have a CD that you install which "sets up" the internet connection

 

[Ívar Þórólfsson]

I don't need them both on the net at the same time. The dell is going to replace this one. I tried plugging the cable into the dell and using internet explorer, but I couldn't get it to work. Something on the lower right toolbar detected there was a LAN connection, but it gave me some message like the connection being limited. Something makes me think I might need an ethernet card?

The Dell has an built in Ethernet card, that´s where your cable goes in (the lan port).

Plug your previous computer back in, I don´t know what OS you have but if you are using W2K or XP, right click My network places/Network neighborhood select properties, right click the Local Area connection and again select properties.
Scroll down to Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), select it and click properties. There you can see the IP address configuration. Write those numbers down and put them in their respective places on your new comp.

 

[Bardolph]

Thanks Ivar. When I do that, it shows that the option of automatically obtaining an IP address is selected, so there's nothing to copy down.

 

[Ívar Þórólfsson]

Thanks Ivar. When I do that, it shows that the option of automatically obtaining an IP address is selected, so there's nothing to copy down.

Hmm, ok.

As others have said... do you have a setup disk from your ISP?

 

[reiver1]

Comcast provides a CD labeled" Give This to your computer."

That should be all you need.