1
what devices do i need to build a LAN?
looking to make a LAN for about 6 PCs
1
what devices do i need to build a LAN?
looking to make a LAN for about 6 PCs
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For only 6 PCs, you can get away with something like a DSL/Cable modem router to do most of the lifting. The router can provide DHCP, NAT from the modem to give internet access, and sometimes has extra features like wireless support, a shared printer port, or shared network storage. At the very least, the DHCP is necessary for the configuration to be sane.
To do this wired, you'll need:
To set up:
Once all of the network stuff is plugged in and powered up, when you set up each PC, its easiest to pick DHCP for the network configuration. Each of them should have different IP addresses.
Make sure you set up some sort of network security, preferrably on each machine in addition to the DSL/Cable router. That is unless this is just for an isolated local area network that is used for LAN gaming or something and has no internet connection.
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If all you need is 6 PCs communicating with each other, then Insyte's solution is pretty much all you need in terms of hardware. You'll also want to configure the PCs appropriately, though:
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You need a switch and network cabling. A cable from each computer goes back to the switch. Assuming you have some sort of broadband internet connection, you'll also need a cable from the switch to the router provided by your ISP.
Any more details will require a lot more information from you about what you hope to accomplish.
im looking to to make a lan to connect 6 pcs together so they can communicate with each other and with out using the internet – None – 2009-11-03T17:55:07.597
Then yes, all you need is the switch and network cables. – Insyte – 2009-11-03T20:27:34.827
From a hardware perspective, anyway. Of course the individual PCs will require configuration. – Insyte – 2009-11-03T20:28:11.330
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You need network devices.
do i need to configure a protocal? – None – 2009-11-03T18:52:58.947
What you do beyond the hardware setup depends on what you want to use the LAN for. – Jay R. – 2009-11-03T23:25:21.643