eMachines EL1200 Series manual Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network

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Attached to the router are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to the router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.

Cable/DSL modem

Router

Equipment you need for a router-based Ethernet network

Important

For best results, all Ethernet components should be either standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or 10/100/1000). A mixture of components rated at different speeds will result in your network running at the speed of the slowest rated component.

For a wired Ethernet network you need:

•Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks

•One router

•One broadband Internet connection (optional)

•Ethernet cables connecting all of the network equipment

When buying your router, be sure the model includes everything your network needs, including:

•Internet security features, such as a firewall, to protect your network from unwanted intruders

•4-port switch to eliminate the need for additional network hardware

•DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment to automatically configure network and IP addresses

Determining if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer

To determine if an Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:

1Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.

2Click System and Maintenance, then click System.

3Click Device Manager from the task list on the left. The Device Manager window opens.

4Click the plus (+) in front of Network adapters. The Ethernet device installed in your computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one.

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